Hello my darling dears! It's Emma here, your friendly neighbourhood pink tutu enthusiast, bringing you another dose of ballet bliss straight from the heart ofā¦ wait for itā¦ Carlisle!
That's right, I've traded in my Derbyshire hills for the rolling Cumbrian countryside. Iāve always had a bit of a thing for the north, what with its dramatic scenery, cosy pubs and charming little villages - a girl after my own heart! And speaking of charming, did I mention Iām sporting a red tutu for this particular escapade? Because darling, I am!
My journey started as it always should: on the train, of course! I adore the rhythm of the tracks, the ever-changing scenery, the whispered conversations of fellow travellers. This time, the carriage was a delightful mix of city slickers on their way for a weekend escape and fellow dance fanatics like myself heading to a workshop. Now, Iām not one to judge, but thereās something so chic about the way dancers carry themselves - those strong lines, that effortless graceā¦ theyāve got the whole āitā factor!
As the train pulled into Carlisle, I took a deep breath and relished the crisp air. The station, a beautiful old building with soaring arched windows, already felt imbued with history. I was feeling so inspired by this change of scene, and ready for adventure!
Iāve always thought there's something magical about Carlisle. It has such a beautiful juxtaposition between its historic heart, with cobbled streets and ancient buildings, and its vibrant modern energy. I popped into the Tullie House Museum first thing ā imagine a Tudor house and a Victorian museum rolled into one, absolutely stuffed with treasures. They have everything from Egyptian mummies to a rather fetching dinosaur, alongside beautiful art and even a room dedicated to the local area's incredible wildlife. My dear reader, if you're a nature lover like me, prepare to be smitten.
Now, onto the piĆØce de rĆ©sistance ā my trip to see a performance at the legendary Sands Centre. You guys know how much I adore seeing live performances, the energy in the air, the sheer magic. Well, this show did not disappoint. This incredible company was dancing a modern ballet inspired by Carlisle's history, with a unique blend of traditional and contemporary ballet techniques. Let me tell you, it was stunning! They captured the history of the city, the changing landscapes, the gritty, honest spirit of the place. It left me speechless, breathless, and with an aching yearning to twirl under the stage lights.
Now, Iām not just a ballet bunny. I'm also a bit of a foodie ā what can I say, I like to indulge! And, oh boy, Carlisleās food scene didn't disappoint! From gourmet cheese and craft ales to steaming bowls of hearty soup in cosy cafĆ©s, it's all here and utterly delightful! There are a bunch of lovely places right around the cathedral too.
I made sure to spend time by the river, soaking in the peace. It's incredible how quickly the river winds around the city. So calm, yet full of power - a metaphor for Carlisle itself!
Of course, I had to pick up a souvenir or two - because you canāt go on an adventure without something to remind you of it. I snagged a vintage postcard of a Victorian woman wearing a glorious pink tutu ā I told you, she was just meant for my collection. Donāt you just love when things perfectly align? It was almost as if destiny had intervened to bring me that pink tutu masterpiece.
And, speaking of destiny, the theme of this journey ā for me at least ā has been all about connecting. Connecting to this incredible city, its history, and the magical energy it has. Itās made me reflect on how important it is to explore and find your own way, your own story to tell.
Don't you ever feel that sometimes you need to break free and just follow the music? Well, that's exactly what I did in Carlisle!
As I caught the train home, the fading light of day painted the fields a canvas of soft pink and orange. The sound of the train rumbling on the tracks mixed with the rustling of the wind in the trees. It was a kind of music that soothed my soul, leaving me feeling inspired and ready to spread that ballet love all over the world, starting with a new dance class I found right in the heart of Derbyshire. You never know, one day you might even find me teaching you all!
Keep dancing, keep travelling, keep dreaming.
And don't forget your pink tutu, darling!
Lots of love, Emma
P.S I'll be posting my dance class highlights next week, so stay tuned!
P.P.S Did you catch that new red tutu in my photos? I'm absolutely smitten with it. Don't forget to click through and let me know what you think!
Donāt forget to check out my website for all things pink, ballet, and sparkly - www.pink-tutu.com
