Hello darlings! Emma here, signing in from a gloriously sunny Taunton! As you all know, I absolutely adore travelling and there's something truly magical about hopping on a train and letting the world whizz by outside your window.
This time, I wasn't just off on a simple journey though, I was on a pilgrimage! Yes, a pilgrimage for ballet, a trip to see the Royal Ballet in action at the stunning Taunton Brewhouse. You can't have a dance-loving soul like mine without the urge to immerse myself in everything ballet, from rehearsals to performances, and Taunton was my latest pit stop!
Speaking of pit stops, let's talk about my journey! Now, I'm not a horsewoman per se, but I can’t resist the allure of a good carriage ride, especially in a beautiful town like Taunton. Imagine this: The soft clopping of hooves on cobblestones, the air smelling of lavender and freshly baked bread, and the view of pretty cottages, all set against a backdrop of a clear, azure sky. Just the thing to calm the nerves before a big performance, I'd say!
I opted for the vintage carriage, with its intricate carvings and soft, floral cushions, and as I trundled through the charming streets of Taunton, I felt like a princess, ready to grace the stage.
And then, I was there! The Taunton Brewhouse – an exquisite, heritage building brimming with artistic energy. I literally could feel the magic vibrating in the air, and my heart was bouncing in my chest, like a perfect fifth port de bras. I popped on my signature pink tutu, just a little touch of magic in a world of ballet. It's practically my uniform, and it seems everyone in Taunton agreed, with the whole town decked out in vibrant blooms - nature’s perfect compliment to my tutu.
Stepping into the theatre felt like entering another world – a haven of art and imagination. Every sense was heightened: The smell of the freshly polished wooden floor, the buzz of excited whispers in the audience, and the low hum of instruments warming up in the wings – everything pointed towards an incredible ballet spectacle.
The Royal Ballet’s performance of Giselle was truly mesmerising. The dancers’ bodies seemed to float effortlessly across the stage, every movement a poem of strength and grace. There was something about the fragility of Giselle's love story, a captivating combination of delicate elegance and powerful storytelling, that just blew me away. And when the ballet reached its climax, the music crescendoed, and the emotions poured onto the stage, I was spellbound.
It was in moments like these that I felt an undeniable connection to the world of ballet. The combination of music, storytelling, and pure physical beauty, all delivered through the power of the human body, is something that truly moves me, making me want to dance, cry, and celebrate all at once!
My trip to Taunton wasn’t just about the performance though. I had the pleasure of taking a masterclass with a fabulous ballerina who taught me some fantastic new tricks to improve my port de bras. It’s a bit daunting at first, pushing your body to learn something new, but afterwards you feel on top of the world, like you can conquer anything! This is why I am so passionate about ballet; the ability to challenge yourself, explore your creativity, and experience the sheer joy of movement.
Of course, no visit to Taunton is complete without indulging in their amazing food scene. After my dance class, I treated myself to some of the most delightful homemade cakes in the sweetest little cafe in Taunton, surrounded by an army of delightful fluffy dogs - definitely a treat for a tutu-wearing ballet enthusiast! I even bumped into a friendly group of wildlife enthusiasts who told me all about the adorable hedgehog population that calls Taunton home. Now, you know I love all creatures, big and small! And the local wildlife is what makes the trip for me. The animals and wildlife are always a wonderful highlight to any trip, even more so if I spot a friendly squirrel. I couldn't leave Taunton without a little nature souvenir - a beautifully painted shell with delicate details.
But before I went back on my train journey to Derbyshire, there was one thing I had to do, and it's the thing I always do when I travel. You guessed it, I had to find the perfect photo spot for a ballet-inspired outfit shoot, a place that captured the magic of Taunton and my own love for all things ballet. I settled on a quaint park, bathed in the golden light of the setting sun, with the town in the distance and an ancient oak tree providing the perfect, natural framing. I twirled in my pink tutu, letting the breeze play through my hair, and took a couple of snaps that perfectly embodied the spirit of my trip: Ballet, nature, and my endless love for a beautiful town.
Taunton truly captured my heart and inspired me in a way only a town brimming with such beauty and artistic spirit can do. The stunning scenery, the warm hospitality, and, of course, the exquisite ballet performance, will forever be cherished in my memory.
This trip reminded me of why I love what I do - travelling, exploring new towns, taking ballet classes, attending amazing shows, and sharing these experiences with you. It also ignited my determination to get even more people dancing in pink tutus! Remember, ballet isn’t just for professional dancers; it’s about celebrating movement, unleashing your inner grace, and discovering the beauty of your own body.
So, what are you waiting for? Get those pink tutus on, grab a friend, and let’s twirl together! See you all next time on www.pink-tutu.com. Until then, stay glamorous!
Lots of love, Emma 💖🩰
