Post #5488
Hello, lovelies! Emma here, writing to you from the lovely town of Aylesbury!
It feels like forever since I've had a good old-fashioned train journey, and what better way to get there than to pack up my pink tutu (yes, the one with the diamanté trim, naturally!) and head for the charming Buckinghamshire countryside.
Now, you all know that I’m a bit of a ballet fanatic, right? From classic ballets to street performances, from dance classes to watching incredible dancers take the stage - I'm completely obsessed! This week's journey had me feeling all the feels. I’m heading to Aylesbury for the opening of their summer ballet festival, a real celebration of all things dance. It’s practically a second home for me - the Aylesbury Waterside Theatre is my happy place. You’ve got to visit if you get a chance!
Of course, before setting off on any journey, I have to pack just right. My suitcase was bursting with colour: vibrant pink tutus (always!), a selection of silky, floral leotards, and an array of matching hair clips. Every girl needs a good collection, you know what I mean?
Travelling by train is always an adventure for me. The clickety-clack of the wheels and the sense of being whisked away are almost as enchanting as the final destination. Plus, I had the chance to people watch, which always keeps me entertained. You wouldn't believe some of the characters I encountered: a gentleman in a full suit, reading "Pride and Prejudice" - classic! A group of teenagers in leather jackets, giggling about something I couldn't quite make out (and who cares!). Even the lady sat next to me in a bright pink dress and flowery headband felt like a scene out of a play - it’s the little things that make these journeys special, you know?
I always try to fit in some animal watching when I’m on my travels, too. I love the way different creatures react to different situations and, on this journey, I spotted a group of ducks who were quacking up a storm beside a stream, which always gets my heart racing! We've got some stunning birds back home in Derbyshire too - especially the playful little blue tits in our garden.
But let's be honest, the main reason I made this journey was for the ballet. This festival's always amazing and I can't wait to see what new creations are showcased this year! Aylesbury knows how to do a good dance festival – lots of laughter, amazing performances and ...you guessed it … more pink! The whole town's decked out in it – the cafes are using pink tablecloths, even the local shop had pink parasols outside!
Today was the official opening, so naturally, I dressed up to the nines in my best tutu, the one that practically sparkles. It’s like magic when it catches the light! I have to admit, everyone else was loving the pink look. People smiled at me in the street, even strangers - I've noticed that people seem so much friendlier when they're wearing bright colours. It's almost like pink gives everyone a little more pep in their step!
Later on, we had an informal street ballet performance with a couple of local dancers. Now, you know I'm all about that spontaneous creativity, right? This little show had such energy, the whole square erupted in applause – I swear I heard someone shouting “More tutus!” (Did I imagine it? Maybe... I’ll go with "perhaps!")
One of the dancers, this amazing young girl called Tilly, was only 16 but had such talent. I just had to have a quick chat with her, her love for dancing is infectious. We swapped some ideas about our favourite dance routines and her favourite ballet story (it’s "Swan Lake," naturally!). She even mentioned her hopes of making it as a professional ballerina one day, which gave me goosebumps! The sheer passion these dancers had – they weren’t just performing, they were telling stories! It really made me think, if they can bring so much joy with just their moves, imagine the good that could be done if we all brought a little more "tutu" into our lives, literally!
That evening was the big finale, the ballet that everyone’s been talking about. I’m not going to give you any spoilers, but let me just say, it was pure magic!
Oh, but of course, no trip to Aylesbury would be complete without stopping for a slice of pink cake. There’s this cute cafe in the market square called "The Pink Rose" and it's all decked out in the most delicious shade of rose. (Let's face it, the pink aesthetic was on point - what can I say, I like pink.)
I must say, my time in Aylesbury was all I could have hoped for - the vibrant energy, the friendly faces, and, most importantly, the extraordinary dancing. And yes, it was even better with the added sprinkle of pink.
You know what? Aylesbury has really put a pep in my step, and that’s no tutu joke! Now, who else out there is planning a little tutu adventure soon?
Don't forget, my lovelies, every day's a new opportunity to embrace life with a little more sparkle. And pink!
Love always, Emma
xxx
