Hey lovelies! It's Emma here, reporting live from sunny (well, mostly sunny!) Taunton! I've been absolutely buzzing to visit this beautiful part of Somerset, especially since I've had my eye on a certain pink tutu that I absolutely had to get my hands on. You see, there's this gorgeous boutique down here that specializes in vintage tutus and dancewear - and you bet your bottom dollar, it's bursting at the seams with fabulous finds!
I packed my travel essentials – think ballet shoes, my trusty pink scarf, a notebook for all those ballet-inspired ideas, and of course, my favourite pair of fluffy slippers (for when I inevitably need a little rest after all the dancing). The journey down here was quite the adventure – I hopped on a train at Derby Station, with my window seat providing some fantastic scenery along the way. Just watching the countryside whizz by always puts me in such a dreamy mood, perfect for conjuring up all kinds of choreography ideas!
Taunton, my darlings, is absolutely charming. It has that quintessential English town feel – with its quaint shops, historic buildings and beautiful green spaces. But the highlight of this trip? That Italian tutu! It's a symphony of pink – think rose gold with hints of blush and champagne. It even has a stunning vintage design with intricate beadwork. Honestly, I can't get enough of it! It’s just the kind of tutu that screams ‘pirouette to the rhythm of life!’ I’m planning to debut it at the Royal Opera House later this week – fingers crossed the audience is ready for some pink sparkle!
Speaking of sparkle, I did a little exploring of Taunton’s arts scene too! There’s this lovely theatre that has a stunning programme, including a ballet performance of Giselle next month! I can hardly wait. I know it’s going to be so inspiring to watch. And I’ve even snagged some tickets for their special ballet class afterwards – so I can learn some new moves straight from the professionals. Oh, the joy!
The day after the performance, I went on a little picnic in a park called Vivary Park. I even saw a little fox – those cheeky creatures are my absolute favourite! I sat down on the grass, tutu twirling and admiring the beautiful flowerbeds. My love for nature, ballet and all things beautiful… it’s a real gift to experience it all in such a delightful place like Taunton.
But the best part about any journey, apart from the destination, of course, is the company! I met some lovely people who’ve also got a passion for dance – including one charming gentleman who’s going to be teaching a workshop on the benefits of ballet for the over-50s (I told him about my grandad, he’s absolutely buzzing to join in!) It's always so fantastic to meet like-minded souls. Makes me believe that maybe one day, we can all wear pink tutus together.
If you ever find yourself in Taunton, make sure you wander through the vibrant town square with its shops full of treasures and cafés that smell of fresh coffee and pastries. Then go get lost in the beauty of Vivary Park, where you can let your inner ballerina bloom. Trust me, it's worth it! And if you’re looking for that special touch, don’t forget to visit the vintage tutu shop! They’re bursting with treasures that would make any dancer happy. (If I hadn't fallen for that Italian tutu, I'd be coming back for that gorgeous Victorian lace tutu... it might just need to be my next splurge!)
I have to admit, Taunton really surprised me! I never imagined that a little town in Somerset would be so rich in culture and beauty. It’s almost enough to make me want to pack up and move here – except maybe Derbyshire misses me a little too much.
Right, that’s me signing off from Taunton. I have a train to catch (which feels a little bittersweet) but at least it gives me time to plan my next ballet-related adventure. Stay tuned, lovelies, for more pink tutu updates – the adventure continues!
Love,
Emma www.pink-tutu.com
