Oh, hello my lovely tutu-loving darlings! It’s Emma here, reporting live from the heart of Cumbernauld, Scotland! This week has been a whirlwind of pink, pirouettes, and prance-worthy trains. I’ve finally crossed Scotland off my ballet-bucket list, and I’ve got to say, this place is blooming beautiful!
My journey began in my home county of Derbyshire, with a farewell to my precious poochie, Prince. Now, you’ll know by now that my travels are rarely, if ever, done by plane. Nope, it's gotta be by train or by horse. This time, it was a gleaming, scarlet locomotive that took me north, with a comfy carriage seat, a good book (something by Jane Austen, naturally), and a few strategically placed pink ribbons on my new, feather-light, floral tutu.
Reaching Glasgow, I was smitten with the city's charm. The grand buildings, the cobblestone streets, and the lively, friendly atmosphere had me feeling like a Victorian heroine stepping into a brand-new adventure. I had to grab a few photos in front of the iconic City Chambers, naturally, tutu twirling and all!
After a spot of lunch with a local barista (she loved the tutu!), I took the train onwards, feeling like I was stepping straight into a storybook. And then…Cumbernauld! My first impressions were honest, just what you’d expect – a bit of an urban landscape but with that beautiful Scottish backdrop of mountains and hills. My mission, however, was to see what was behind those doors and explore the art scene.
You guys know me! I wouldn't miss a ballet class for all the pink lemonade in the world! So, on the hunt for dance studios I went. My new pal, Tilly the Tutu-Tailoring Fairy (she made the magnificent, pink and lavender flower creation I’m rocking!), has been working her magic on my tutu collection, and this trip called for something whimsical. Turns out, there are quite a few studios in Cumbernauld – hidden little gems in amongst all those shopping centres. And you won't believe it – one studio even offers "Tutu Thursdays!" Can you imagine?
Of course, I couldn't leave Scotland without indulging in a touch of cultural enrichment. The Cumbernauld Theatre offered a charming little ballet performance based on the legends of Loch Ness, (so much magic! so many twirls!) and the Cumbernauld Arts Centre boasts a stunning collection of local art – the vibrant colours and artistic energy just buzzed with creativity! I couldn’t resist adding a couple of paintings to my tutu-themed art collection for my flat back in Derbyshire.
As for the nature aspect – and you know this is essential to my wellbeing! – Cumbernauld has got it all. From the scenic Strathclyde Country Park with its gorgeous lochs and trails to the serene beauty of the Cumbernauld Glen, this place is like a dream for an aspiring nature dancer. It's full of lovely wildlife, too. Imagine, me, twirling under a majestic Scottish oak tree, my tutu swaying like a pink ribbon in the breeze! sighs dreamily.
On my last day in Cumbernauld, I even attempted a spot of Highland Dancing at the local community center! You’d be surprised – it involves more than a little footwork, my friends! They have classes in traditional highland dance and modern variations. Honestly, you should have seen me trying to learn the "Highland Fling" with a full-fledged, pink tutu – absolutely hysterical!
Now, Cumbernauld might not be everyone's idea of a girly getaway, but for a tutu-clad ballerina like me, it's been a dream come true. It’s been a trip filled with vibrant pink tutus, graceful moves, a dash of theatrical enchantment, a healthy dose of nature and, let’s not forget, a generous amount of pink champagne to celebrate my amazing adventure!
Of course, I made a vow – like a little ballet oath to myself – to return with my next tutu design. Think highland tartans in pink and lilac, with a smattering of fluffy feathers.
The mission? To turn every single citizen of Cumbernauld (yes, even the ones who wear sensible shoes!) into a proud ballet dancer, twirling a tutu in every colour imaginable. What do you say? Can we turn this mission into a reality, my darlings?
Now, if you’ll excuse me, I need to prepare for the next stop in my ballet-travel diary, a visit to the wilds of the Cairngorms National Park! And naturally, I’m packing a whole wardrobe of fabulous pink tutus. Because, darling, when it comes to fashion, comfort, and a passion for dance – a girl's got to stay true to herself, and I happen to love, love, LOVE wearing a pink tutu, especially when travelling the world!
Until next time, my little ballerinas! Do let me know what you think of my adventures, or if you have any tips for my next visit. I’m all ears, or, should I say, Tutu Ears! Stay twirling!
Emma
www.pink-tutu.com
