Hey darlings! It’s Emma here, back with you for blog post number 8261! Today I'm bursting with excitement because I've finally made it to Nottingham. It's always felt like a city steeped in history and with so many wonderful things to discover. Plus, did you know, there's a huge castle? It's just begging to be explored by a tutu-clad ballerina! 😉
Speaking of tutus… my absolute favourite pink tutu came with me, of course! Today I paired it with a vintage silk scarf I snagged at a market in Derby - a touch of glamour, but with a whimsical twist, wouldn’t you say? Honestly, when I’m feeling a bit lacklustre, a bright pink tutu always seems to inject a dose of joy into my day. ✨
This trip is all about experiencing the best of Nottingham’s cultural scene - so, naturally, ballet is at the top of the list. Tonight I'm heading to the Royal Concert Hall for a spectacular performance of "Swan Lake." Can’t wait! But before the show, there’s a special surprise. Remember the amazing ballet street performers I told you about in my last blog post? Well, they’re all performing in Nottingham's Old Market Square today. I’m planning on grabbing a spot near the fountain and taking it all in. Imagine – all those graceful figures pirouetting in their own versions of beautiful, flowing tutus! 🩰🤩
Did you know there's something incredibly calming about watching a live ballet performance? The beauty, the artistry, and the power of the movement always seem to work a bit of magic. It's a way of escaping the daily hustle and bustle, don't you think?
Oh, and I must tell you about my adventure getting here. Since I love all things vintage and romantic, I decided to take a scenic train journey, complete with old-fashioned carriages. It’s actually something I'd been wanting to do for ages! Honestly, it was pure magic – I felt like I was stepping back in time. It was almost like being transported into a ballet performance itself. I spent the whole ride admiring the rolling green countryside whizzing past my window and scribbling down some new ballet ideas in my journal (because inspiration always strikes at the most unexpected moments, don't you agree?).
Speaking of countryside, there's something I've always been curious about - Nottinghamshire’s hidden gems of nature. Nottingham may be known for its city buzz, but the beautiful countryside isn't far away. I hear there are some breathtaking trails that go through Sherwood Forest, famous for the legendary Robin Hood, and all his mischievous shenanigans. I’ve always had a bit of a thing for foxes – something about their playful cunningness and graceful movements really appeals to me – and they're said to roam these ancient woods. So, on a whim, I'm planning to pack a little picnic basket (filled with delicious pastries and a spot of Earl Grey tea, naturally) and take a long, leisurely walk. Perhaps I’ll even pack my pink tutu, for a spontaneous ballet performance by a giant oak tree. 😉
To finish off the day, I’m dreaming of the most quintessential Nottinghamshire treat. Apparently, they have this legendary Bakewell Tart, known for its almond and cherry-topped goodness, invented in, you guessed it, Bakewell. That seems like the perfect way to round off an extraordinary day of ballet, adventure and discovery! I may even sprinkle some glitter on top for good measure. 💖
But enough about me. I want to know: have any of you ever been to Nottingham? What are your favourite spots? Have you tried any amazing bakeries there? And most importantly, tell me, what are your favorite memories from ballet performances, big or small?
Don’t forget, you can share all your thoughts and tutu-related ramblings with me on my blog www.pink-tutu.com, on Twitter (@pinktutu), and Instagram (#PinkTutu).
Until tomorrow, keep those toes pointed, and those hearts filled with joy.
With lots of love,
Emma x
