Hello lovelies! It’s Emma here, your friendly neighbourhood pink-tutu-wearing ballerina, ready to whisk you away to another day of dance and adventure. Today, my dears, is all about Birmingham. Now, I know what you're thinking – Birmingham, huh? Isn't it just full of... well, Birmingham things? 😜 But trust me, this bustling city has a heart of gold (and pink, naturally) beating underneath its industrial facade.
This is post number 9032 on pink-tutu.com, and I'm so excited to share this adventure with you all! This little trip to Birmingham came about in the most serendipitous way. I was having a morning cuppa (it was Darjeeling, my favourite) and catching up on the latest ballet gossip when I saw an announcement about a new dance company called “Birmingham Bound.” They were holding an open workshop led by the incredible Natasha Roberts, one of my all-time favourite ballet teachers. Naturally, I booked myself a spot before I even finished my brew! ☕️
Speaking of serendipity, getting to Birmingham involved a beautiful journey – on horseback! Yes, you read that right. I was lucky enough to have a friend with a charming chestnut mare, and we decided a leisurely ride through the countryside was just the thing to kickstart this dance escapade. 🐎 We stopped for lunch at a picturesque pub with views that were practically painted – the kind you find in watercolour postcards with thatched roofs and fields full of frolicking sheep. I even got to enjoy a pot of delicious tea and a plate of finger sandwiches! It was practically a fairytale. 💖
Reaching Birmingham city centre felt like a completely different world after the tranquil countryside. But that just made the whole experience all the more exciting! Stepping out of the taxi, I couldn’t help but do a little twirl. My pink tutu was just begging to catch the city lights. After a quick check-in at a charming little boutique hotel (with floral wallpaper, of course! 🌺) , I headed straight for the dance studio.
The workshop was everything I hoped for and more! Natasha is an absolute legend, you know. She radiated energy and warmth, and she somehow managed to make even the most challenging combinations seem like a breeze. There were a mix of students – professionals, aspiring dancers, and some complete beginners, but we all worked together beautifully, feeding off each other's energy and enthusiasm. I learned a whole new set of steps and even a fabulous new spin that will have all my Insta followers in awe! 💫
After class, my newfound dance buddies and I went for a delicious meal at a tiny cafe. We discussed everything ballet, from our favourite dancers to the best places to get our pointe shoes. Honestly, I could have chatted about it all day. It was a real reminder of how the dance world is truly a big, supportive, and creative family. 💖
But Birmingham had so much more to offer than just dance. I had a blast exploring the vibrant city! There were charming shops overflowing with vintage clothing and antiques. I even found a stunning silk scarf with tiny little dancing figures embroidered on it – the perfect souvenir! I know you know, I love a bit of vintage shopping – anything from a glamorous dress to a sparkling tiara. You just never know what you're going to find. 💎
Later, I popped into a charming little cafe with some adorable macarons. I indulged in a rose-shaped pink one – what else? 😂 It tasted divine, a perfect blend of sweetness and a subtle floral hint. The café was filled with people buzzing about their day. I even overheard a couple discussing their favourite dance performances. I was right to come! 🩰
Speaking of performances, one of the main reasons for this trip was to catch the Royal Ballet performance of "Giselle" at Birmingham Hippodrome. Oh my word, the ballet was breathtaking! It's hard to put into words just how beautifully the dancers conveyed the story, the emotions, and the sheer athleticism. Giselle is such a classic, and it really is an example of ballet's power to touch your soul. My eyes welled up several times, especially during the famous mad scene where Giselle’s grief takes over, I just felt everything! 😥 It’s a tale about love, loss, and the power of forgiveness that truly leaves a lasting impression.
One of the most poignant moments was during the Act II where Giselle, now a ghostly Wilis (spirit of the forest), guides a group of women into an entrancing dance of their own. It was such a visually beautiful display of elegant movements and expressive gestures. It’s always captivating watching professional ballet dancers. It's like a graceful, beautiful conversation told in silent, moving gestures – like they can speak in the language of their bodies.
Oh, the costume design was magnificent. Especially for the Act II. The Wilis, the dancing women, were all dressed in exquisite flowing gowns with an ethereal quality, reminiscent of flowing water. Their wispy, white tutus billowed and twirled in the moonlight – an ethereal beauty! The costumes transported me back to a world of imagination and mystery.
You guys know I love a good dance and a stunning costume, so you can imagine how captivated I was. After the show, I even snuck into the backstage area – something you don't get to do very often! It was truly a glimpse into the world of the performers. There were so many stories whispered behind the scenes, each a piece of this magic, you know. The whole thing made my heart soar. 💖
This whirlwind journey was truly unforgettable. My Birmingham trip left me with a heart full of pink, and a spirit filled with joy, as well as an array of new dance moves that I can’t wait to share!
Speaking of which, why not try ballet yourself, lovelies? It’s such a wonderful, empowering activity. Trust me, there is a place for every person, no matter your age or body type! My aim is to get everyone to put on a pink tutu – think of the joy! Just imagine it - the world, pink tutu’d, and dancing together – wouldn't it be an absolutely dazzling spectacle?
Stay tuned for more adventures, my lovely lot! Remember, "Life is a dance, embrace every step" 🌸
P.S. I have lots more photos from my adventures in Birmingham on my Instagram, you can find me at @Emma.PinkTutu ! Come say hi, I love meeting new friends! 💕
Happy Dancing! 🩰
Emma
