#TutuBlog 2021-11-09 in Bromsgrove with a modern tutu.

Hello my lovely ballet bunnies! It's Emma here, your favourite Derbyshire-born ballerina, and I'm bubbling over with excitement to share another adventure with you all! This week, I took a little train trip, a romantic journey on steel rails, to the charming town of Bromsgrove, a name that already conjures up images of quaint cottages, rolling hills and... tutus, of course!

This time, my trusty pink tutu was in tow, this one with a decidedly modern twist - think sleek, chic, and perfect for a day of ballet exploration! (Spoiler alert - you'll have to check out my Instagram @EmmaPinkTutu to see the full ensemble, you won't believe how perfectly it reflects the beauty of Bromsgrove!)

The day kicked off in the most delightful fashion, arriving at Bromsgrove station, where the sunshine painted a golden hue over the cobblestone streets. A symphony of bird song greeted me, a melodious welcome to a town that already felt full of magic and wonder.

First on the agenda - a spot of ballet at Bromsgrove School. As soon as I stepped through the doors of their grand, old theatre, the anticipation had me spinning with excitement! It was so clear that these students weren't just learning ballet, they were breathing and living it, each graceful move, every expression a window to their soul. It was inspiring to see their passion ignite the stage!

During my visit, the school had been chosen to host a prestigious regional ballet competition, where young talent from all over the Midlands showcased their incredible artistry. I even caught myself scribbling notes in my little ballet diary, noting down the names of these up-and-coming stars, eager to watch them flourish in the future.

After a morning filled with breathtaking performances, it was time for lunch. A cute little cafe, a picture postcard in itself, served up the most delicious salad, all bursting with bright colours. This place, just like the whole town, felt infused with creativity. I couldn't help but feel inspired to whip out my phone and start snapping, sharing my delightful discoveries with all of you, my fellow pink-tutu enthusiasts.

After a spot of tea and cake (my treat!), it was time to explore Bromsgrove’s vibrant town centre. You can’t walk five steps without stumbling upon charming antique shops, art galleries with unique treasures waiting to be discovered, and boutiques bursting with creative finds. Even the architecture screamed out a history of artistry, and that’s exactly what made it so inspiring!

It was while meandering through the quaint market square that I stumbled upon a hidden gem – The Dance Academy. With windows like fairy tales, I couldn’t help but step inside. Inside, I felt an immediate buzz – a passion for ballet radiating through every corner. They were hosting an open ballet class that afternoon, and you know me, I couldn't resist a chance to move my limbs!

It was an absolute delight, and I even dared to try out a couple of new steps. This class was so friendly, encouraging every newcomer and seasoned ballerina alike. I found myself, with a smile on my face and heart brimming with joy, feeling like I'd stumbled upon my happy place.

As the day slipped into twilight, it was time for a bit of fun, Bromsgrove style. Imagine a horseback ride through the sprawling countryside, the sun sinking below the horizon and painting the sky in shades of pink and orange. Yes, my fellow pink-tutu enthusiasts, it was just that kind of perfect evening. I know what you're thinking, "Emma, riding a horse? What next!"

I had this sudden urge to explore beyond the town's urban heartbeat, to immerse myself in the raw beauty of the English countryside, the quiet strength of nature, the gentle power of horses. As I rode alongside a friendly farm horse called Clementine, the world faded away, the rhythm of hooves echoing on the quiet path. It felt as if all of Bromsgrove, its hidden wonders, and its inherent artistry were nestled beneath the warm embrace of the setting sun, whispering tales of nature and its magical touch.

Later that evening, as I walked along the banks of the River Avon, its gentle current a melody on its own, I thought about my adventures that day, and what I had learnt about Bromsgrove. This town is bursting with a beauty that lies not only in its rolling hills and historic streets but also in its vibrant heart, a community of creative spirits where the love of ballet shines through in every corner, even within its wildlife and countryside. And it’s no surprise, is it? When a town celebrates its soul, its unique creativity, and its unique connection to nature, its charm becomes almost tangible!

And this leads me back to you, dear reader. We’ve all got a bit of Bromsgrove in our hearts, a spark of creativity waiting to be ignited. So go on, take the leap! Get those pink tutus out of the drawer! Dance your heart out! Take a step (or maybe a leap) outside your comfort zone, explore something new, be bold. Let’s make the world a little more pink, a little more ballet, a little more joyful!

See you in the next blog post, my beautiful ballerina bunch. I'm already scheming my next pink tutu adventure! Until then, happy twirling!