#TutuBlog 2020-01-20 in Harrogate with a orange tutu.

Hello lovelies! It’s Emma, your favourite tutu-tastic blogger, writing to you live from the charming town of Harrogate, a true gem nestled amongst the Yorkshire Dales. My adventures continue to take me to the most captivating places, and today, it's all about finding that inner ballerina in the heart of England.

As I hopped on the train from my Derbyshire home (a true romantic’s journey, with rolling hills and fluffy sheep as my constant companions), I knew this trip would be a whirlwind of culture and, of course, tutus. Harrogate, you see, holds a special place in my heart – not just for its charming cafes and the intoxicating scent of freshly baked bread in every bakery window, but for its thriving artistic scene. I’m practically bursting with excitement to share my adventures with you.

So, how does one celebrate Harrogate’s allure? Why, by wearing a bright orange tutu, naturally! You know me, I'm all about bringing that unexpected colour and playful spirit to every city I visit. It might have felt a tad bold stepping onto the station platform with this vibrant number (especially alongside the gentleman sporting a fetching bowler hat, sigh the English truly do have such a unique style!), but honestly, who wants to blend in when you can create a little magic?

Before I even touched down in Harrogate, my day started with a delightful treat. I had the absolute joy of riding in a horse-drawn carriage, those glorious, stately creatures, pulling me along through the charming cobbled streets of the town centre. The soft clip-clop of hooves against the stones, the gentle breeze carrying the scent of flowers, and the warm sun on my face - it was truly idyllic. Honestly, who wouldn't want to go everywhere by horse? (It’s something I’m definitely aiming for, I tell you!).

Next, I indulged my love for the performing arts at Harrogate Theatre. It’s a stunning venue with rich history, a real symbol of the town's love for all things creative. You could feel the palpable excitement in the air, that magic that only a theatre can conjure. They had the most captivating performance of "Giselle" – a timeless story about love, betrayal, and, of course, ballet. Watching those graceful dancers, their bodies moving with such power and elegance, ignited a fire within me – it was pure artistry! You know I adore all styles of dance, but classic ballet has a special place in my heart, those pointe shoes and flowing skirts are simply a dream!

Speaking of dreams, what could be more magical than sharing a backstage tour of the theatre with the lead dancer? It was a highlight of the trip for sure, a true peek behind the curtain. I'll never forget the warmth and passion I felt in that room, the camaraderie amongst the dancers, and that undeniable thrill of stepping onto the stage where dreams come to life.

The charm of Harrogate isn't confined to the theatre. Wandering through its picturesque streets, each one a postcard moment waiting to happen, I felt transported to another era. This town is so beautiful, you practically stumble upon hidden gems every few steps!

One of my discoveries was a quaint, vintage bookshop overflowing with fascinating stories. I found myself completely absorbed, surrounded by dusty tomes with faded covers. Who knew you could lose hours in such a haven of paper and ink? After purchasing a couple of delightful titles - because you can't leave a bookshop empty-handed, can you? - I found myself drawn to the scent of freshly baked pastries emanating from a cafe across the street. What better reward than indulging in a decadent slice of Victoria sponge, with lashings of whipped cream and a strong cup of Earl Grey? The perfect afternoon pick-me-up for this tireless ballerina, let me tell you!

And while I enjoyed my cake-filled break, I couldn't resist snapping a few pictures. After all, how could I not document these beautiful surroundings for you, my dear readers? With my trusty vintage camera, I captured the pastel hues of blooming flowerbeds, the imposing grandeur of the elegant Harrogate Town Hall, and, of course, the charming faces of local residents - all of them a unique tapestry woven into the fabric of Harrogate’s identity.

One of the best parts about my travels, as you all know, is the opportunity to connect with other tutu enthusiasts. This time, it was an incredible group of ladies who all had a shared passion for dancing – some seasoned professionals, others, like me, just enthusiastic amateurs. It’s always so wonderful to chat with these lovely souls, who find so much joy in their dance classes. They are the real reason I do this, inspiring others to embrace their inner dancer and, who knows, perhaps even start wearing their very own pink tutus (I’ve got my fingers crossed!).

The afternoon found me participating in a ballet workshop in the town's historic Royal Hall, an impressive Victorian-era building, complete with elegant balconies and stunning stained glass windows. I confess, I did experience a little “fish out of water” moment when I donned my tutu (in a slightly less flamboyant orange, a vibrant shade reminiscent of the autumn leaves), but then the music began and it was like a switch flipped. Suddenly, it was just me and the rhythm, every step flowing effortlessly into the next. There's a truly magical feeling when you surrender to the joy of movement, of expressing yourself through dance. It's not about being perfect, it's about the sheer thrill of being present in the moment and feeling that spark ignite inside.

The session was such a delight. I even met a local ballerina who shared my passion for the graceful, playful world of ballet street dance! It’s always a joy to find a fellow enthusiast in unexpected places. Sharing our experiences, discussing upcoming performances, and talking about our passion for this art form – there’s a deep connection that transcends age, background, or experience.

My Harrogate escapade was, without a doubt, a magical experience. It reminded me of the sheer power of artistic expression, the joy of embracing spontaneity, and the importance of finding community in our shared passion. And yes, I left with a newly found appreciation for vintage books, delicious pastries, and the indescribable magic of stepping onto a theatre stage in a glorious, bright orange tutu.

Stay tuned for more of my tutu-tastic adventures, dear readers. There’s so much more to discover, so many more stories to tell, so many more smiles to share! Remember, my goal is to get everyone dancing and, even better, rocking their very own pink tutus. So, until next time, dance your hearts out!