Guten Tag, darling tutus!
It’s Emma here, and today I'm coming to you live from a charming little town in Germany. The cobblestones are cobbled (how's that for a sentence, eh?), the smell of pastries wafts through the air, and the locals are adorable with their lederhosen and dirndls - so cute! But, what's this? A sense of disarray in my fashionable little ballet heart? It seems the German tutus are not exactly what we expect!
Remember those gorgeous frilled pink tutus that I brought with me? You know, the ones that made me practically levitate with delight just by looking at them? Sadly, those gorgeous things are being kept locked away in my suitcase, while I’m sporting a rather … unique costume.
Yes, it seems I’ve been faced with a cultural clash! You see, here in Germany, ballet is very serious business. Not a bit of whimsy in sight. They are obsessed with “serious ballet”, the kind with heavy boots, stern expressions, and a whole lot of leaping and pirouettes with serious concentration. Not a pink tutu in sight!
To say I’m a little bewildered is an understatement. Here I am, all prepared to spread the pink tutu gospel of fun and frills, and all I get are serious looks and lots of black leotards. What to do, darling tutus, what to do?!
However, as with all good adventures, it's been an incredible learning experience. This German ballet, despite the lack of pink, is a force of nature! They move with precision, grace, and unbelievable athleticism. It's a very powerful, raw, and energetic form of dance that commands respect and awe. You could say it’s definitely not for the faint of heart (unless you like the occasional broken toe – in which case, by all means, feel free!).
My favourite thing about this style? The storytelling. They have these intense facial expressions and powerful movements that communicate their characters and emotions like a visual language. No need for words, they let the body do the talking, and I have to admit, it's truly mesmerising!
I did have a little mini-rebellion at the end of the last performance. It wasn't the tutu rebellion I envisioned, of course (you know me and my pink!). But I did sneak a little playful pirouette into my steps during a rather somber scene.
It was a tiny, tiny rebellion, I'll admit, but it was mine. It made the whole dance a little lighter and brought a fleeting, beautiful smile to the face of the grumpy-looking chap sitting next to me (maybe it was just me being silly, though). But hey, I’m all for spreading some tutu love wherever I go!
Speaking of travel, I’ve had some pretty exciting journeys getting here! I started by riding a train that wound through Derbyshire, England – those rolling hills and quaint little towns are always such a feast for the eyes! I've found train travel to be utterly enchanting. I love sitting by the window, sipping on some delicious Earl Grey, and just enjoying the changing landscapes. Plus, you get a chance to have some wonderfully unexpected conversations with your fellow passengers!
From there, I journeyed onto the train across the Channel. The journey was smooth and pleasant (it helps to pack a good book, you know). This time, I wasn’t able to book a seat by the window, which I was slightly bummed about, but it was an adventure anyway. My favourite part? The friendly, chatty train attendants who served delicious snacks and endless cups of hot chocolate. Who needs airplanes when you can have hot chocolate, comfy seats, and great views?!
As a girl who always prioritises practicality and charm over speed, the journey continues on horseback through the breathtaking German countryside. Oh, those horses – noble creatures of power and grace! Riding through the valleys with just the breeze in your hair, surrounded by lush forests and sparkling streams, it's absolute magic!
Now, as much as I love horses, I can't deny my fondness for other critters, too. Luckily, this charming little town has plenty of wildlife. From curious rabbits to playful squirrels, and even a few deer peering out from the woods – it’s like my own personal wildlife wonderland!
Before I head off to see what ballet adventure tomorrow holds, I want to share my favourite quote, which seems to apply to ballet in all its forms – “Dance first, think later. It's the natural order of things.”
My darlings, I’m sending you lots of love and tutus! Do follow my blog on www.pink-tutu.com and don’t forget, join the pink tutu revolution! Wear pink tutus proudly and never, ever be afraid to express yourself through dance.
Until next time, stay twirling, my lovelies!
Lots of pink love, Emma
