Hey lovelies! It's your favourite pink-tutu-clad blogger, Emma, back with another adventure! Today, I'm channeling my inner Victorian lady (and I mean that in the best way possible) and hopping on the train for a little jaunt to Wrecsam! Yes, Wrecsam - that beautiful, historic city in North Wales with cobbled streets, grand buildings, and... you guessed it... pink tutus. ;)
This week, it's all about discovering the magic of ballet beyond the city lights, and there's no better place to do it than in Wales. I'm a Derbyshire girl at heart, but there's something about the rolling hills, charming villages, and, of course, the dramatic castles that just draw me in. Plus, I hear Wrecsam has a thriving ballet scene! Imagine, dancing under a starlit sky with the whispering of the wind as your music. That's the kind of atmosphere I live for!
The Tutu-fying of Wrecsam
After a picturesque train journey, the quaint station at Wrecsam was like a portal to a bygone era. It’s a little like stepping into a scene from ‘Miss Pettigrew Lives For A Day’ but with fewer bonnets and more... well, more tutus! Of course, I couldn’t resist adding a little sparkle to the platform by giving my trusty red tutu a good twirl. It made the other passengers smile and that's always a win. I swear, that red tutu has its own magic!
Speaking of magic, I had to get a taste of local life, so I went straight to the centre of Wrecsam to explore. Imagine winding cobblestone alleys with flower boxes overflowing, independent boutiques bursting with colour, and the faint aroma of freshly baked pastries hanging in the air. I couldn't help but feel that irresistible sense of wanderlust taking over, and my feet started to move to the rhythm of the city.
Finding Inspiration at Plas Newydd
But there was something even more intriguing that I had to experience – a grand, ancient house that was a true hidden gem: Plas Newydd. This 16th-century house with its beautiful gardens is just what my wanderlust needed. Picture this: an old house steeped in history, with grand oak panels and grand fireplaces. Just picture it! It was pure magic, and of course, I found inspiration everywhere. Those swirling patterns and delicate motifs were like an orchestra of possibilities for my next tutu creation. You know, I have an idea for a floral tutu with a subtle pattern… maybe I’ll use it in my next performance!
Twirling in the City
Then, I ventured into Wrecsam's charming heart to check out its vibrant artistic energy. They have an amazing performance venue called the Stiwt Theatre! It's an eclectic space with a history steeped in both tradition and innovation. So much like me! The perfect place to discover up-and-coming talent and experience a performance infused with a bit of Welsh magic. The play was a real heart-warming story with moments that really got me in the feels. The performance truly resonated with my own love for ballet. It was a blend of elegant grace and raw passion, kind of like watching a captivating dance.
A Welsh Wildlife Encounter
I simply had to spend some time enjoying the beautiful Welsh countryside before heading back to Derbyshire, and what's a visit to Wales without a dash of wildlife? I ventured into a hidden nature reserve where I could escape into the embrace of nature and be surrounded by chirping birds, lush vegetation, and playful squirrels. Oh, I was so giddy! I felt that same excitement that you get before a ballet performance; it's that wonderful mixture of exhilaration and wonder. It’s a joy to simply embrace the moment and enjoy the sights and sounds.
And for all you wildlife lovers, did I tell you I even had a brush with a family of majestic red kites soaring through the sky? Talk about a graceful spectacle! They were a blur of beauty and freedom, dancing through the air with their brilliant red plumage and soaring high above the trees. It was a real "wow" moment that stayed with me for the rest of the journey.
Coming Home with a Twinkle in My Eye
That evening, back on the train and with a heart full of the Welsh countryside, I knew it was time to embrace the journey back. That magical train ride is like slipping into a warm bubble bath, watching the scenery melt away while lost in a world of dreams and wonder. I can’t wait to capture my Welsh adventure in my next blog post - the beauty of the Welsh countryside and all the wonder and sparkle that it brings will be front and centre. It will be called 'A Day in the life of a Ballet Lover in Wrecsam’. And remember, loves, every day is an opportunity to make memories, so let's dance and embrace life with open hearts and swirling tutus.
Catch ya next time, loves! Until then, keep dancing!
Emma xxx
