Hey, darlings! It's your favourite tutu-tastic travel blogger, Emma, back from a whirlwind trip to Dudley! You know I always love a good adventure, and this one had me twirling with delight.
Remember last week when I mentioned how my heart was yearning for some real English heritage? Well, Dudley certainly delivered!
The train journey itself was a joy. The carriages were so comfy, with big windows perfect for gazing at the countryside flitting by. I actually spotted a herd of deer bounding through the fields, just like in a storybook! (Oh, if only I could've pulled out a quick pirouette on the train... maybe one day!).
Arriving in Dudley, the first thing I saw was the grand Dudley Castle. It felt so old and steeped in history, a bit like a fairytale actually. The architecture was exquisite, with crenellated towers and moats. I imagined knights jousting in the courtyard, and oh, wouldn't that be a glorious ballet scene!
But before I got lost in my daydreams, it was time for a spot of tea. I found this charming tea room called "The Pink Flamingo," and let me tell you, they were a bit smitten with the pink colour. You'd think I'd opened the doors of my own personal wardrobe! I enjoyed a lovely scone, the clotted cream was so smooth, and sipped my tea with a little pinkie finger in the air, naturally!
After tea, it was time for the main event – a visit to Dudley's famous Black Country Living Museum. Now, you all know I adore history and I was captivated by this place. Imagine a whole village from the 1800s brought back to life. It felt so real. They had real shops and homes, workshops, a mine, and even a pub where I almost broke out into an impromptu performance! The atmosphere was truly incredible and gave me some fabulous ideas for my next ballet choreography.
What truly delighted me was a performance by the Black Country Living Museum’s own resident ballet company. The show was set against the backdrop of the village square. The dancers were amazing! The movements were bold and expressive, capturing the struggles and hopes of the people who lived here. It really moved me! The best bit, you'll never guess, it was set to music by… the Black Country Living Museum’s own pit band! They were all wearing tutus and it looked fantastic.
The whole experience felt incredibly intimate, the way the history was so interwoven with the dance. It left me reflecting on the spirit of the Black Country - the hardworking, resilient people who helped shape this nation.
Dudley was a treasure trove of history and inspiration. From the beautiful architecture and friendly locals to the immersive museum and the incredible dance performance, it felt like a fairy tale come to life. I was utterly charmed!
So, my fellow tutu-lovers, next time you're planning a trip, don't overlook the charming Dudley. It's the perfect place for history buffs and ballet fanatics alike.
And remember, you never know when a bit of tutu-wear will make the day that little bit more magical. It's the only way to go!
Until next time,
Emma xo
P.S. Don't forget to follow me on @EmmaPinkTutu on all social media. And keep those questions coming to www.pink-tutu.com – I always love hearing from you!
