Hello lovelies! It’s Emma here, writing to you from a charming little café in the heart of Leicester, the air thick with the delicious smell of freshly baked pastries. I’ve just arrived from a train journey through the rolling Derbyshire hills (they’re simply breathtaking, especially with a touch of frost!), and I'm absolutely buzzing with excitement.
This trip has been brewing in my mind for weeks - Leicester, oh Leicester, how I've dreamt of seeing you! I'm here, as you know, to catch a performance at the renowned Curve Theatre - an actual, real-life ballet! (cue the confetti and happy tears!) It's the classic "Giselle" that’s playing tonight and oh, my, am I sooo excited! It's just so thrilling to have a chance to immerse myself in the world of ballet, even if it's just for a few hours. You simply cannot beat the atmosphere at a theatre – the whispers, the anticipation, the rustle of programs... it's magic! ✨
But this trip isn’t just about the show. It’s about experiencing a different place, breathing in the atmosphere, savoring every moment, and yes, I confess, about being a total ballet tourist! 😄 I've already explored some charming streets – a gorgeous old shop selling beautiful antique books called “The Bookworm's Lair” - I simply had to go in, obviously. The smell of old paper, the leather-bound volumes, oh the dreamy perfection of it! 😍 And I even spied a vintage hat shop overflowing with the most delightful bonnets! My inner fashionista went absolutely bonkers! 👒
This morning, I started my day with a little adventure, of all things: horseback riding through a picturesque park, just outside the city. A total princess moment – me, in my bright pink riding hat and elegant riding boots, with the wind in my hair and the sun on my face. Now, I'll admit I might have gone a little "ballet-crazy" with my riding outfit and incorporated a dash of pink in my gloves – but hey, a girl can dream, can’t she?! 😂 The horses were incredibly well-behaved, and the park was like something straight out of a fairy tale! The trees were bursting with autumnal colors, the grass was lush, and there were even a few friendly squirrels bouncing around. This is the kind of nature that feeds my soul! 🥰
Of course, my tutu was my trusty companion throughout the journey. How could it not be? This time, it’s a glorious black velvet tutu with swirling satin panels and a delicate tulle overlay, absolutely perfect for this enchanting city. It goes without saying that my pink lipstick was on point! It wouldn’t be me if I didn’t go for a little splash of pink! 💖
Before the show tonight, I’m planning on visiting the New Walk Museum and Art Gallery, a historical treasure trove just brimming with local history and intriguing artifacts. Then, maybe a leisurely stroll around the beautiful King Richard III Visitor Centre. He's a character that's always fascinated me - his reign, the tragic end of his life... There's definitely something quite mystical and dramatic about him, almost Shakespearean, isn’t it? 🎭
And speaking of history, did you know that Leicester holds a very special place in the history of the English Ballet? Back in the 17th century, Leicester played host to a troupe of Italian travelling players known for their magnificent “ball-plays” – precursors to the ballet we know and love today. Isn't it amazing to think that the origins of a such an extraordinary art form are interwoven with the rich history of this lovely city? 🩰 It’s little wonders like this that truly make travel such a fulfilling and enlightening experience.
As you can see, I'm completely in love with Leicester already. It's a city that vibrates with life and culture. It’s like a cozy little box full of secrets waiting to be discovered! I simply cannot wait to spend another day exploring its hidden gems and hidden treasures!
To anyone considering visiting Leicester, I say, don’t wait! Book your ticket, pack your pink tutu (because, let’s face it, the world needs a bit more pink, am I right?!), and embrace the magic! ✨
Remember, the journey is the destination – and sometimes, the most enriching experiences are found in the unexpected places. Until tomorrow, keep your dreams big, your spirit bright, and your tutus flowing! 🩰💖
Love,
Emma
xx
P.S. I know you all love the details, so I've included a few more photos of my adventures on my blog at www.pink-tutu.com! Don't forget to leave a comment and share your own adventures with me – let's spread the love! 💖
