Hello darlings! It's Emma here, fresh from a whirlwind trip to the charming borough of Islington in London town. It feels like just yesterday I was twirling through the fields of Derbyshire in my favourite pink tutu, but this week called for a touch of urban flair, so I packed my suitcase full of tutus – the German one in particular caught my eye for this adventure.
The journey, of course, had to be by train! I love the rhythmic clickety-clack of the rails, and it’s the perfect time to get lost in a good ballet book, my head full of dreams of pirouettes and grand jetés. Once in Islington, I was immediately struck by its bohemian charm. Cobblestone streets, charming cafes spilling out onto the pavements, and a sense of creative energy buzzing in the air. I couldn't resist snapping a few pictures of my tutu amidst the colourful scene, and let me tell you, a pink tutu against the brick walls of Islington makes for quite a statement!
My first stop, of course, had to be the Sadler’s Wells Theatre! There’s no better way to immerse yourself in the magic of ballet than a live performance, and I was treated to a truly dazzling display of artistry and grace. The dancers’ movements were so fluid, so precise, and their stories told through every graceful leap and delicate arabesque. Oh, to have such talent and athleticism!
The evening concluded with a delicious supper at a tiny, candlelit restaurant, where I shared stories of the ballet with my dear friend Olivia. As always, Olivia looked absolutely smashing in her emerald green tutu – she truly knows how to rock a colour! We gossiped about the latest ballet news, discussed the brilliance of the dancers, and dreamt about the tutu outfits we'd design for our future ballet shows. You know, one day we're going to conquer the world of ballet together – just you wait and see!
The next morning, I decided to venture into the heart of Islington's bustling markets. From vintage clothing stalls bursting with colour to artisan bakers offering tantalising treats, there was something to captivate every sense. Of course, I found myself drawn to the handmade jewelry stalls, picking up a few delightful baubles with ballerina motifs for my collection. (I can’t get enough of those ballerina-themed trinkets!)
But a real highlight of my day came in the form of a magical ballet class at the Islington Dance Studio. It was just a tiny little studio tucked away on a side street, but oh, the magic! I'm so lucky to have found it, because the teacher, Miss Eleanor, is a true gem! She’s patient, she’s kind, and her passion for ballet is absolutely infectious. In that small studio, surrounded by fellow dance enthusiasts, I felt so inspired. I could have danced all day long!
I have to admit, I was a bit nervous when I arrived. It was the first ballet class I had taken in quite a while and I wasn’t sure how my old ballerina skills would stand up. Luckily, Miss Eleanor had this incredible way of making everyone feel welcome, regardless of their experience. She helped me find my centre, strengthened my core, and guided me through some new moves. My, I was quite rusty after the long winter break, but with some practice, I’ll be twirling around that barre with the best of them.
One thing that truly stuck with me from the class was Miss Eleanor’s emphasis on finding joy in the dance. It wasn't just about perfecting technique – although that's obviously crucial – but about the joy of movement, the freedom of expression, and the pure exhilaration of dancing. This reminded me of why I fell in love with ballet in the first place! It was about letting your body speak, feeling the rhythm, and celebrating your inner ballerina.
Leaving Islington felt bittersweet. But I couldn’t help but feel so refreshed and inspired, filled with the joy of movement and a renewed passion for ballet. It’s a reminder that life is a dance, and I intend to twirl through every moment of it! I am convinced that this is the year we all make tutu dreams come true. It's time for everyone to discover their inner ballerina, feel the joy of movement, and spread a little bit of pink-tutu magic in the world!
Love, Emma
P.S. If you’re ever in Islington, do visit the Islington Dance Studio and be sure to tell Miss Eleanor that I sent you. I bet you will fall in love with it as much as I have.
P.P.S. You might even spot me, in a dazzling new pink tutu of course, on a stroll down one of Islington’s cobbled lanes or enjoying a cuppa with Olivia!
