Hey darlings! Emma here, back with another TutuBlog post from the heart of England, well, kind of. I swapped my Derbyshire countryside for a bustling trip to Small Heath, Birmingham today, and let me tell you, it was a complete whirlwind!
It all started with the most exciting news: The Royal Ballet are staging Giselle at Birmingham Hippodrome, and I wouldn’t miss it for the world! Honestly, who can resist a performance as iconic as Giselle? Especially when the Birmingham Hippodrome is such a stunning, historical building with those gorgeous red plush velvet seats - I can't help but be swept away by the whole experience!
Before the show, of course, I had to treat myself to a bit of pre-performance pampering. What's a ballet girl without her ritual? My fave spot in Small Heath was a delightful little tearoom tucked away in a cobbled courtyard. A cuppa and a delicious raspberry and custard slice, served on floral china - absolute perfection! And wouldn't you know it, they even had a selection of pink cupcakes, a perfect accompaniment for my yellow leotard - did I mention my leotard is yellow? Yes, yes, you heard that right, I'm taking a little fashion risk today, and feeling absolutely fabulous in it. It's a vivid canary yellow and surprisingly, it really brings out the twinkle in my eyes (no, I am not joking)! I'm a real advocate of trying new things, don't you agree?
Anyway, my treat ended with me practically sprinting to the Hippodrome, a delicious chocolate orange in one hand and my trusty pink handbag, complete with all my ballet essentials, in the other! I wouldn’t miss a performance for anything in the world, but today, the thrill was even more exciting – my dear friend from our ballet class back in Derby is actually in the Giselle company and has a solo. Can you imagine my excitement? I was positively vibrating!
The performance was breathtaking! The dancers were exquisite - graceful, powerful, and utterly captivating. And when my dear friend graced the stage - well, I could barely hold back the happy tears. It was such a joy to witness her talent on full display! It honestly filled me with so much inspiration – I had to go to class and work on those beautiful leaps, those fluid port de bras, everything! It’s moments like this that make me realise how powerful the language of ballet really is – we truly communicate without a single spoken word.
Afterwards, it was off to a little restaurant on the canal for dinner. I'm a real sucker for cobbled streets and waterside cafes, don’t you know, especially when there's a delicious scent of Italian cooking wafting in the air! Now, don't worry, it wasn't just about the food! It gave me the perfect excuse to people watch - one of my absolute favourite hobbies, you know!
My observation skills are pretty impressive, if I do say so myself! From a dapper chap in a flat cap and a classic Barbour jacket to a group of ladies wrapped in beautiful silk scarves (you bet I'll be getting myself some lovely scarves this winter – there are some truly stunning styles out there), and let's not forget the adorable toddler wearing a fluffy pink coat and pink fluffy boots – she was quite the vision, don’t you agree? My heart always melts when I see such cuteness – it inspires me to get more kids interested in ballet.
Now, where was I? Yes, I have to say it was truly heartwarming seeing such a vibrant mix of people. You wouldn’t believe the laughter! They all seemed to be radiating that ‘Small Heath' magic. A very contagious and feel good atmosphere indeed! It made me wonder about the history of the place. Apparently, Small Heath used to be an industrial centre with many factories! I just picture the workers marching home in a row of brightly-coloured leotards, right?! It seems that a place that has witnessed such change still has a lively and welcoming soul. I wonder if they ever had a pink tutu factory?! Now, there's an idea!
Before I headed to the station to catch my train, I just had to take a quick detour. A little detour with the biggest smile plastered across my face? Why, the beautiful Birmingham Botanical Gardens, of course! And there it was! You guessed it: A graceful, elegant swan, so elegantly white, swimming in the crystal clear water – the embodiment of grace, elegance, and all things ballerina-like, in my eyes!
Let me tell you, a perfect swan sighting was the perfect end to my trip! What a reminder that life’s little joys are found in all corners, even in the most unexpected places! The whole trip has definitely inspired me to embrace a little spontaneity - perhaps even invest in a pink-striped tutu for next week's ballet class! Now, that’s an idea.
Of course, you already know I'm a firm believer in getting out and exploring. From Derbyshire, to the bustling streets of Small Heath to the magical Birmingham Botanical Gardens, every adventure brings something new to the table. I can't help but love exploring every nook and cranny, from my beloved countryside walks to the thrill of the city. It all comes down to finding those hidden treasures.
It's the perfect time for an escape from routine! Who wouldn't love a journey on a scenic train, complete with a good book, a pint of Earl Grey, and a delightful little packet of custard creams (it's definitely not always about the dancing, my darlings)! Oh, and don't forget to dress up with a splash of pink, because frankly, it's always a good idea, you know?!
Remember, we all have the power to spread joy, love, and ballet! Now go grab your pink tutus, darlings, and go dance the day away! I'll see you all next time!
Lots of love, Emma xx
www.pink-tutu.com
