Hello my darlings! 🩰💖 It's your favourite pink tutu-wearing, ballet-loving Emma here, and guess what? I've just had the most fabulous weekend in Grays, Essex! As you know, I'm always on the lookout for new and exciting adventures, and this trip was a real treat. It wasn't just any trip, though – I got to wear a gloriously American-style tutu, complete with a gorgeous sparkly bodice! (I'll tell you more about it in a bit, don't you worry.)
Now, I know what you're thinking: Grays? Isn't that just a place people drive through on the way to somewhere else? Well, let me tell you, this little town had a charm all its own! It wasn't exactly Paris or New York, but that's exactly why I loved it! It was the perfect opportunity to slip on my dancing shoes and take in the atmosphere.
The trip started with a ride on the train. It's always so relaxing, especially with a good book in hand. This time I was reading "Pride and Prejudice", the absolute perfect way to while away a journey to somewhere so quintessentially English. Did I mention my outfit? I opted for a soft blush pink knitted jumper and a beautifully delicate chiffon skirt. It just seemed right for a day out in the countryside.
Upon arrival, I made a beeline for the local coffee shop. Imagine my delight when I discovered a display case full of the most amazing pink and cream cupcakes! It was like they were made for my Instagram! (Speaking of Instagram, follow me @EmmaPinkTutu!) I tucked into a cupcake the size of my head, enjoyed a steaming cappuccino, and started planning my Grays itinerary.
This being a town with a distinctly British character, I had to check out the Grays Market. The stalls were crammed with local crafts, yummy cheeses, and colourful fruit and veg – the freshest produce I've seen in ages! It felt like stepping back in time! I even bought a few packets of pink sugared almonds – can you ever have enough? It wouldn't be a trip to Essex without some souvenir-buying, would it?
One of the highlights of the trip was definitely my visit to the Thurrock Museum. I don't usually go for historical sites, but this museum is actually super cool! It has exhibits about the area's industrial heritage – you can see an amazing old Thames Barge, which was used for transporting goods on the river. Who knew the Thames was so significant to Grays?
Then came the moment you've been waiting for! The reason for my trip to Grays - ballet class! But it wasn't just any ballet class. It was at the fabulous Dance Dynamics studio. I was looking forward to experiencing their "Ballet in the Borough" program, and let me tell you, it didn't disappoint!
The studio was vibrant, welcoming, and bursting with enthusiasm. You could just tell they love ballet! I even spotted a student sporting a bright pink leotard, I mean, come on! It just warmed my pink tutu-wearing heart.
I ended up having the best class ever! Our instructor was amazing, she brought so much joy and passion to every exercise. She also taught us some incredible American-style technique, and let's face it, I'm a bit of a technique nerd when it comes to ballet!
Of course, no trip is complete without a lovely meal, right? So, I found a delightful little bistro on the main street with an incredibly charming ambiance. I enjoyed the most delicious steak and a bottle of rose wine – you can't really get a bad bottle of rosé in Essex!
In the evening, I went to a truly inspiring ballet performance. I wouldn't say it was exactly Swan Lake or Nutcracker – this performance was a bit more contemporary and definitely a bit edgy, but absolutely captivating nonetheless. The dancers were so passionate and dedicated, I could tell they absolutely loved what they did. It was almost as good as performing on stage myself (almost!).
And now for the pièce de résistance, the American-style tutu! Remember I mentioned wanting to try something a little different? Well, this tutu is truly a dream. Imagine a bright pink, voluminous skirt, overflowing with layers of shimmering tulle, complete with a bodice adorned with delicate pink beads and beautiful sequined detail! It's a beautiful tribute to classic American ballet aesthetics - big, bold, and incredibly feminine. It's actually a piece I had my eye on for months! It's made by a young designer from London, and I was so lucky to snag one at a discounted price! I know it's just for practice right now, but I can already imagine myself waltzing through the streets of Grays in this gorgeous piece! (I may even start a petition for Grays to have its own ballet theatre.)
But before we leave, just remember: It's all about spreading the pink tutu love and encouraging everyone to discover the joy of ballet. So whether you're a seasoned dancer, a complete novice, or simply someone who loves the grace and beauty of this art form, why not put on a pink tutu, go to a ballet class, or even watch a performance online?
That's all from me for now. Catch you next time for more pink tutu adventures. Until then, let's keep dancing and spreading the love of ballet!
Stay beautiful and ballet-ful! Emma xx 🩰💖
