Oh my gosh, lovelies! I am absolutely buzzing! This past weekend, I got to experience the magic of Manchester and, of course, a bit of a ballet escapade, too. I’m going to tell you all about it, every single glorious detail!
You see, I’m a Derbyshire girl through and through, but my heart belongs to the big city! Manchester is always such a buzz, especially when I’m sporting a bright pink tutu. 😜 There’s something about its vibrant energy that gets my creative juices flowing, and it always inspires me to create something absolutely extraordinary! This time, I chose to wear my new American-style tutu. I know you guys love to see my unique and dazzling creations, and I promise to get the tutorial up on www.pink-tutu.com as soon as I get the chance.
Now, how did I get to this marvellous city, you ask? Well, it wouldn’t be a proper Emma adventure without a touch of the whimsical! I took the train, of course. My best friend and fellow tutu-loving enthusiast, Lucy, was already there, waiting for me on the platform with a bouquet of pink lilies (my favourite!) in hand. A little touch of magic to start the weekend!
We got settled in our hotel, right in the heart of the city, and then straight out to soak in the energy! We explored the bustling streets, filled with beautiful shops and delightful cafes. My love for anything pink definitely made it easier to pick out the perfect treats (the pink macarons from the cafe called 'Patisserie Pretty' were divine!). We even spotted a few other tutu-lovers out and about, though none quite as daring as me with my pink number. ;)
As the sun started to set, we made our way to the Royal Exchange Theatre for a magical performance of ‘Swan Lake’. I’m pretty sure my jaw was on the floor for the whole first act. Those beautiful dancers, with their fluid movements and graceful leaps… It’s simply breath-taking. I could have sat there all night, lost in the story. We saw the ballet back in London last month, and Lucy even has her very own tutus that she made, which is just awesome. She was ecstatic about the new outfits worn by the dancers – those incredible hand-beaded details, and the colours…
I can’t even begin to describe the emotions! That beautiful performance filled my heart with so much joy and a sprinkle of inspiration, enough to make me want to bust a move or two on the cobbled streets. Luckily, there’s always a way to make ballet fit into a normal day, don’t you think?
Before bed, we ventured into Piccadilly Gardens, taking a walk around the famous sculpture. Manchester always reminds me of ‘Peaky Blinders’ – I even found a vintage clothing shop where I spotted the most fabulous hat that wouldn't be out of place at the next horse racing event I go to (and yes, I always ride a horse – what else? It’s just a must for every ballet dancer!). Maybe you could be there in a tutu – just imagine the fashion! It would be amazing, even if it did shock the ‘toffs’ at the races! I imagine a parade of ladies wearing tutus in every colour imaginable…
Anyway, back to the blog! You see, a real life princess has to stay awake for that fairytale feeling and the chance for that special something...
This time, my Manchester fairytale took a delightful turn the following morning when we went for a visit to the Manchester Museum. I adore discovering the history behind every corner, but let me tell you, it was the ‘Animal Spirits’ exhibit that truly captivated me. Imagine seeing beautiful wildlife up close - magnificent lion sculptures and breathtaking specimens of endangered creatures, and the fascinating Egyptian exhibits! Seeing this wonderful display ignited a passion within me that I know many of you share – the desire to protect our wonderful planet and its diverse inhabitants. We are all connected. As dancers, we connect with the environment - the way we move in nature inspires and heals - ballet and nature. We’ve all seen the amazing footage of dancers in forests and parks... Isn't it so inspiring! A pink tutu in a wildflower meadow, wow!
Of course, a true ‘pink tutu’ trip wouldn't be complete without indulging in a spot of high tea. It was everything I dreamt of and more – dainty sandwiches, delicious cakes, and oh, so much tea. I practically melted into a puddle of pink perfection, dreaming about all the exciting tutu creations to come.
Before I left Manchester, I couldn't resist making one final detour – the Manchester Arndale Shopping Centre. I knew I needed to find some new accessories for my pink tutu collection, and let's just say, I didn't disappoint. I’ve already got ideas for some new dance sequences that I can’t wait to try! Don't worry, my loves, you'll get to see them in action soon enough. 😉
All in all, it was an absolutely perfect Manchester getaway. From breathtaking performances to awe-inspiring museums and charming moments with a fellow tutu-lover, this weekend has been a kaleidoscope of colour and magic, and, it filled my heart with inspiration and excitement. Now, I am ready to inspire others to embrace their own creativity and take that leap into their own world of dreams!
Remember, my darling lovelies: wear that tutu, and never stop dancing. Spread the joy of movement, inspire and dream with every leap!
Your ever-inspiring,
Emma x
P.S. Don't forget to follow me on Instagram @Emma_PinkTutu to see more from my fabulous Manchester adventure! I’ll also be adding a short vlog about the trip later on in the week, too! And, stay tuned for my brand new tutorial on how to create the perfect American-style tutu...you’re going to love it! I will, of course, give you more details of this gorgeous trip in the next few days, especially those amazing dance scenes and a special tribute to my love of 'Peaky Blinders'.
