Hello, darlings!
It’s Emma here, reporting live from the vibrant, historical city of Belfast! The air is crisp and the cobblestones are calling my name - perfect for a stylish stroll in my brand new, oh-so-feminine lilac tutu. I must admit, the colour is making a statement amongst the typically grey-tinged architecture - and, let me tell you, my inner ballerina couldn't be happier!
As a ballerina, you see, I thrive on colour, on the vibrancy of life! Pink, purple, blue - anything bright and beautiful that sparks joy in my heart! It’s my way of telling the world “hello!” And what better way to do that than by embracing the gorgeous hues of my favourite tutu?
Speaking of embracing, I just had to catch the train from London to Belfast! What better way to experience the rolling emerald countryside than from a window seat on a steaming carriage? The scenery was magical - rolling hills, sleepy villages, sheep dotting the fields like cotton balls - and my excitement for Belfast reached fever pitch as the landscape began to transform into the bustling city.
I can already smell the sea salt in the air and see the grand Victorian architecture beckoning me closer!
I couldn't resist a little impromptu dance in the grand station concourse - with my tutu twirling, my heart soared with the excitement of discovering this new and thrilling city.
This weekend, Belfast is buzzing with the International Ballet Festival, and my diary is packed with events!
First on my list? An afternoon of ballet street dancing at City Hall - I just know it's going to be electrifying! Can you imagine a hundred ballerinas dancing across the cobblestones? The sheer artistry of the choreography, the rhythmic steps of ballet moving from theatre to the streets? It's a ballet revolution that's spreading like wildfire across the globe, and Belfast is proving itself to be a hotbed for this movement.
Speaking of movement, after all that twirling, I just know a spot of wildlife spotting is in order! The Giant’s Causeway, with its otherworldly basalt formations, is calling my name. Can you imagine the history embedded in every single stone? The raw power of nature creating such a stunning spectacle? I imagine a scene of dancing waves crashing against the rugged coast - truly beautiful!
For my inner ballerina, this trip isn't complete without visiting the Grand Opera House - an architectural gem adorned with ornate Victorian décor. They are staging Swan Lake this weekend, and I simply must go. It’s my favourite ballet of all time - so much emotion and powerful imagery all wrapped up in the graceful movements of the swans.
Did you know Swan Lake was the inspiration for my very first ballet shoes? When I was about five, I begged my Mum for pink satin shoes after watching my first ever ballet performance. My Mum, bless her heart, obliged, and those shoes set me on my ballerina path.
But Belfast isn’t just about grand ballet, it's about community, about embracing creativity in all its forms. I hear they have a fantastic little local dance studio tucked away in a cobbled lane. This afternoon, I’m planning on dropping in for an impromptu class. You see, for me, ballet isn't just about professional performances; it’s about passion and expression, it’s about letting the music guide you and moving your body to its beat.
Let’s face it, it’s an art form that needs to be experienced, not just witnessed! This is where my campaign to “Tutu the World” comes in. It’s a way to spread joy and make ballet accessible for everyone. Every little twirl, every little leap - that’s how we connect. So let's ditch the worries and embrace the joy, and, just for a moment, forget about the day-to-day and dance like no one's watching! And yes, my dear friends, this includes wearing a tutu, any tutu!
From Derbyshire to Belfast, and onward! I can’t wait to share more adventures and ballet delights from this wonderful city.
Remember to check out my website - www.pink-tutu.com - for updates on my ballerina adventures.
Sending love and tutus,
Emma x
