Blog Post #9334
Hey my lovely tutu-lovers! It’s your favourite pink-loving ballerina, Emma, back with another adventure for you! This time, I've traded the Derbyshire hills for the historic charm of Chelmsford, a bustling town just outside of London. Let me tell you, I'm absolutely buzzing with excitement, not just for this gorgeous little town, but because, as you know, I'm all about spreading the love of dance and tutus, and Chelmsford is overflowing with both!
I'm a firm believer in making the most of everything, so what better way to reach Chelmsford than by train? You know I love a good train journey, and the gentle rhythmic rumble of the carriage is practically the perfect warm-up for a dancer like myself! 🚂 Plus, I just love the view – a beautiful patchwork of English countryside whizzing past. It was all sunshine and buttercups out there, just perfect for setting my imagination alight for a day of ballet explorations.
Before heading straight to the Chelmsford Ballet Studio for my first class, I had to take a peek around this gorgeous little town. I simply adore towns and villages with character, and Chelmsford's charming cobbled streets, pretty cafes, and historical architecture really caught my eye. It's a blend of history and vibrancy that made me want to slow down, breathe it all in, and take some pictures of course, as it truly inspired my pink tutu loving soul.
It felt only fitting, to pay a visit to Chelmsford Cathedral. It's a magnificent building with a stunning spire, and you know I’m all about a little historical architecture. And speaking of historical figures, who else but the legendary Princess Diana had visited Chelmsford Cathedral on several occasions - that’s pretty exciting! Now there's an inspirational figure - a princess who just radiates style, grace, and kindness! (And lets face it, I love a princess that wears a crown - or a pink tutu)!
Okay, so it was time to ditch the historical ramblings and channel my inner ballerina, because Chelmsford Ballet Studio was calling! 🩰 This was a real treat, and one of the main reasons I made this little trip. Chelmsford Ballet Studio, with its beautiful wooden floors, spacious studio space, and big windows filled with the most gorgeous, soft afternoon light, really is a dream come true! I was like a little girl in a tutu candy shop. 🍭 And they even had an adorable little shop with a display of all kinds of tutu's! Of course, I was compelled to take home a pretty new addition to my collection - a little lavender tulle beauty - perfect for my next ballet adventure.
You guys know I’m a big fan of ballet, be it at the Royal Opera House, in the street, on stage or at the studio! It’s something that has captivated me for years, with its expressive grace and strength, it is something I really connect with, and what better way to get the feel-good endorphins going than with a ballet class in this gorgeous studio? The lovely instructors helped me stretch every muscle and refine every movement, and my aching muscles were the best kind of tired. The joy of dancing always feels like magic.
But Chelmsford wasn't just about the studio! As a big fan of theatre, and anything with a good storyline, I was drawn to the Chelmsford Civic Theatre. It's a true piece of theatre history, boasting a stage and auditorium perfect for all kinds of productions! They have a packed programme, with plays, musicals, comedy shows, and everything in-between. I made a mental note to return for their upcoming musical production, because it’s all about following your passion and supporting the performing arts in any form you can! (Plus who doesn't love a good singalong!).
The final gem I discovered in this charming town, was the wildlife park! I adore animals, particularly those who are wild at heart, and so a visit to see the deer and all sorts of fascinating animals roaming freely in the large enclosure was simply fantastic. These creatures are truly living their best life and a true reminder of nature’s grace and beauty - that same grace I try to find and translate through the world of dance.
Speaking of finding beauty in nature, it truly reminded me of my little ballet adventure that started back home in Derbyshire, surrounded by those iconic hills, the wind on my face, and those sheep who always look like they're doing some very important stretching. It's the nature, the movement, and the freedom, that I try to convey in my own style, whether I'm performing, teaching, or even just having a good twirl around in a tutu on a hilltop.
But I also try to inspire other dancers (or aspiring dancers!) because anyone, yes anyone, can put on a tutu! It’s not just about ballet, it’s about finding the confidence and the courage to express yourself, and to follow your dreams!
Chelmsford has shown me that tutu power doesn’t stop at a beautiful dance studio! It's in the historical beauty of a cathedral, the energy of a theatre, the playful grace of wildlife and even the charm of the people in those little cafes.
So if you're feeling a bit inspired, find a local dance class, pop on a tutu, and make some memories. Don’t let your inner ballerina hide! And let me know where you are!
Love, Emma 💖
