Southall, Southall, Southall, I’m Coming Home to You! (Blog Post #6270)
Hello lovelies! It's Emma here, bringing you a little bit of sunshine from my trip to Southall! I'm not going to lie, I'm absolutely buzzing after seeing the most spectacular ballet performance last night. As I'm sure you know, ballet is pretty much my life. But, there's something truly magical about seeing it live, breathing, and bursting with emotion on a stage, isn't there?
This week, I decided to embrace my inner ballerina, take a little detour from my usual Derbyshire surroundings, and hop on a train down to the lovely Southall. This town is actually the heart of my ballet-loving journey - I grew up spending summers with my cousins who lived here, and it’s always had this very special charm for me. They say it's known for its vibrant street markets and buzzing cultural scene - but for me, the main attraction has always been the magnificent Southall Broadway Theatre!
You see, this theatre was where my very first love affair with ballet started. Back when I was about six years old, my grandmother took me to see 'Swan Lake'. Oh my goodness, it was truly awe-inspiring! It was right there in the balcony of the theatre where I watched in mesmerized silence, watching graceful ballerinas dance with the most exquisite, floating steps and dazzling costumes. Little did I know, this performance was to change my life! It filled me with so much wonder that I simply HAD to try ballet myself. My parents finally agreed, and I started lessons as soon as we got back home! Now, it’s been my life ever since.
The theatre itself is a real beauty – its grand Victorian facade and imposing stained-glass windows instantly transported me back to that summer evening in my childhood. This theatre holds so many memories! And I absolutely loved getting to spend a few days exploring all its hidden corners and beautiful nooks - including its delightful little library in the corner of the building, and its quirky costume room where I was delighted to discover an absolutely gigantic, gorgeous pink tutu just for me. (I mean, a girl's gotta have some pink tutus on hand, right? What better than to find a beautiful pink one, tucked away in the costume room of your favorite theatre?). It truly felt like a little bit of magic!
So, when I heard about this beautiful performance in Southall, my heart did a little pirouette of joy and I knew I just HAD to go. The performance was even more breathtaking than I could have ever imagined - it was like seeing a symphony of emotion and dance. It took my breath away and I’m pretty sure I was floating on air for at least three days afterwards.
For a little backstage sneak peek - (because I'm sure you all want to see what happens when the curtain closes), I got a little chat with one of the dancers, a lovely lady named Florence, and her energy just lit up the entire room! She’s from Manchester and I was so excited to find that she too was absolutely wild about horses! I guess this whole equestrian obsession really does run through my blood, doesn’t it? (My secret hope for next year is to convince my local riding school to host a balletic equestrian display – wouldn’t that be wonderful?) Florence is such an inspiration - a truly dedicated and committed artist with a true love for the ballet! We chatted all about her career – the joys and the sacrifices, her favorite moments on stage, and how her favorite thing to do before each performance is to have a big hug with her mom. (You see, it's true, there really are little bits of everyday life in every dancer's journey - just a reminder that these gorgeous creatures of grace are just like us!)
Anyway, I was so happy to spend time with Florence! And that’s why I’m now convinced everyone should have a dance teacher in their life - not just for their dance steps but also their positive energy, kind hearts, and passion for art! (And of course, they are guaranteed to give you a giant, joyful hug whenever you need one!). They're genuinely inspiring people who really put everything they have into their work, and if you ever need some motivation to try something new, talk to your local dance teacher!
Of course, no trip to Southall would be complete without a spot of lunch. I am obsessed with all things sweet and colorful, so I couldn’t resist a gorgeous pastel-pink iced cake (pink for the win!). And of course, no London visit would be complete without a ride on the tube, so I took the Tube back to my favorite vintage clothing shop in London, the 'Retro Chic Boutique,' where I picked out some incredible outfits. (Yes, you know, those incredible 60s outfits and vintage tulle skirts. I couldn't possibly leave the shop without some new, gorgeous wardrobe treasures!).
The highlight of my trip was discovering this new vintage clothes boutique - 'Threads by Alice.' It is absolute perfection! A beautiful and colorful vintage paradise tucked away in a cozy little street just around the corner from my hotel. They have such exquisite vintage accessories - scarves, shoes, hats, belts and jackets. My love for all things sparkly, frilly, and pretty was absolutely spoilt for choice!
Anyway, Southall, you’ve really enchanted me once again. It really was an enchanting weekend and I know I will never forget the vibrant street markets, delicious food and charming local pubs. (Yes, the pubs were a very important part of this trip! My personal favorite - ‘The Queen’s Arms'– is the sweetest little spot where the local people gather to chat, sing, and, of course, have a good old-fashioned British pub lunch.)
And before I go, I must confess that my favourite moment from this trip had to be watching the ballet and watching the dancers soar through the air with such effortless grace and strength, a truly mesmerizing sight.
Remember to have a lovely day, and don't forget - always twirl like no one is watching,
Lots of love, Emma xxx