Hello darlings!
Emma here, and guess what? It's Christmas Eve! 🎅🎄 And guess what else? I'm in Wolverhampton! That's right, my lovely little town in the heart of the Black Country! And no, it's not because I've got family here - it's because I'm about to see a fabulous ballet performance. 🩰
I love it when I can combine my love of ballet with some proper travelling, and this week I’ve been making the most of those glorious railway journeys that only British folk truly appreciate. We Brits do love a good train trip. The rhythmic click-clack of the wheels on the track, the sound of tea being poured at the little café trolley, the thrill of seeing the countryside race by as you chug along – it's truly magical. I packed my comfy little suitcase and travelled in style on the 7:07am express from Derby. Now, you may not think Derbyshire has much in common with Wolverhampton, but if you consider my extremely chic, incredibly comfortable yellow tutu (yes, I love yellow as much as I love pink! More on that later, I promise!), it’s a perfect match. Both are vibrant, bold and definitely not afraid to stand out. 😉
And talking about standing out, Wolverhampton is a place that certainly does that. You just know when you’re in Wolverhampton, it’s got this certain gritty, industrial, charming vibe. A far cry from my home town of Bakewell, nestled in the Peak District, where you can practically smell the lavender from miles around. 💐
This trip is more than just a visit for me. I’m here to visit The Grand Theatre for their magical Christmas production of “The Nutcracker”, a ballet that always brings out the child in me, full of twinkling lights and delicious magical stories! I think every dancer dreams of performing that piece at least once in their life. Who wouldn't love to wear a sparkling costume, twirl on a magical snowy stage and be part of this enchanting production? Just don't forget to wear that little pink tutu you all keep in your drawer, don’t be shy, wear it under your sparkly Christmas dress, trust me – you'll feel like a princess at midnight! 😉
Now, speaking of tutus... Oh my gosh, my gorgeous yellow tutu... I love this little number so much. I wore it this morning on my walk into the city centre. Honestly, the city folk were absolutely thrilled to see a bright flash of sunshine. A smile is the best accessory for any look and I managed to get everyone smiling, which truly makes my day. Let’s be honest, who wouldn't want a little bit of colour in their lives, even if it is a tutu on a snowy day? 😄
As you can see from the pictures, I decided to use my travel day to explore Wolverhampton’s stunning architecture. Just look at those beautiful buildings, each one like a different piece of history, some even a hundred years old. What's fascinating about this city, as you wander around its beautiful parkland and grand city streets, is its history and how much it reflects how the Black Country is a truly thriving and vibrant industrial heartland of Britain, just like its beautiful buildings! It's also got some amazing independent shops, cafes and galleries, so be sure to check those out too. They truly do add a vibrant spark to the city centre.
If you're visiting this Christmas, do visit the Wolves Museum – what better way to learn more about this unique, charming and thriving area and its people, than to step inside their rich and dynamic past? And let's not forget Wolverhampton's iconic status for its wildlife, its natural parks are abundant in wildlife like roe deer, badgers and, of course, those enchanting hedgehogs. And those magnificent canals! Absolutely stunning, you won’t want to miss these!
But back to this magnificent ballet! I simply can’t wait for my afternoon. The magic that happens inside a theatre like The Grand really gets me going! A place of true beauty where talented dancers take to the stage to tell captivating stories through graceful, breathtaking movement and heart-stopping choreography. What a beautiful gift they offer to us!
What I love most about theatre and street ballet is the audience interaction. When you go to a theatre ballet performance you truly are in another world. Every time I visit a ballet performance it takes me away from all of life’s stresses and makes me feel completely transported, like I’m in another world. But this doesn't mean it’s all seriousness and sophistication, no no, a good dance needs laughter and joyful interactions, so be prepared for the smiles! I hope to inspire people in Wolverhampton, as I do everywhere I travel, with my little ballet class. So, if you’re visiting, please drop by!
Wolverhampton may not be everyone's first choice for a festive trip, but with the bright lights of The Grand, charming independent stores and that Black Country Christmas spirit, it's actually a rather charming destination for those who dare to venture out! So, what's the next stage in my pink-tutu clad adventure? Well, I'll let you know tomorrow! Don't forget to check back! And please feel free to leave a comment or follow me on Instagram! See you all soon, darlings. Lots of love!
Emma 💖
www.pink-tutu.com
