#TutuBlog 2022-08-29 in Manchester with a yellow tutu.

Hey darlings! It’s Emma here, your resident tutu enthusiast and lover of all things pink, bringing you another daily dose of sparkle from the glorious world of ballet. Today, my trusty pink suitcase is packed and my tutu is ready to twirl – Manchester, I’m coming for you!

This time, I'm trading my trusty steed (my adorable grey pony, "Twinkle Toes" - he doesn’t always travel well in crowded cities, you see!), for the rhythmic sway of a train journey. The whistle of the steam engine is always such a magical sound – I picture it as a symphony of motion, carrying me to new adventures and graceful twirls.

I have to say, there's nothing quite like the buzz of arriving at a new station. The air crackles with possibility! I just know I'm going to see something extraordinary. And today's adventure is all about getting my dose of Manchester's amazing ballet scene.

I've always dreamt of seeing the renowned Manchester ballet companies perform. The energy here is infectious, it just sings with creativity! My heart is pounding with anticipation, and it feels as if every step I take is a graceful plie in this symphony of excitement.

First on my list is a visit to the Royal Exchange Theatre for their ballet season, featuring a beautifully intricate performance of “Swan Lake”. Oh, the emotions! I simply couldn't contain my excitement. There's something about seeing the story unfold in front of your very eyes that truly makes it come alive. Every flutter of a dancer’s costume, every delicate leap, every poignant gesture, told a tale of passion and heartbreak, all against the backdrop of a magnificent, romantic setting. And can we talk about the tutus? The craftsmanship and delicate beauty of those shimmering white tulle gowns are simply breathtaking!

After a show as magical as that, a wander through the city’s beautiful canals was the perfect way to unwind. It's such a treat to watch the boats gently gliding by, mirroring the grace and serenity of ballet itself.

The city is alive with creativity, which really made me want to join the flow! So I popped into a dance studio near the Manchester Arndale Centre, for a spot of ballet barre work. The studio's bright pink walls matched my mood, and it was a fantastic opportunity to stretch my muscles and try some new moves. And it’s never a chore when you've got your favourite pink tutu on. It always adds a little bit of magic, doesn't it?

One of the things I love about travelling is finding pockets of beauty everywhere you go. Today, I'm totally captivated by Manchester's vibrant street art scene, with murals painted in the most stunning shades of pink, purple, and teal. Every street corner feels like an artwork in itself! This really highlights how art, in any form, is truly a beautiful expression of creativity. And there's a little bit of tutu spirit woven into every brushstroke!

But Manchester wasn't just about ballet for me, because my day wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the city’s world-famous Trafford Centre. With a playful mix of high street stores and quirky, independent shops, the Trafford Centre has everything my little ballet-loving heart could desire – even a gorgeous pink cashmere cardigan that just screamed my name!

There's just something so wonderful about getting lost in the colourful world of retail. It's almost as much fun as picking out a brand new tutu, though, admittedly, I may have indulged a little more than I intended in the lingerie section… A girl’s gotta look and feel her best for those twirls, right?

Speaking of indulgences, I just had to treat myself to afternoon tea at the swanky "The Lowry" hotel. They really know how to put on a show with their elaborate selection of finger sandwiches, delicate pastries, and perfectly brewed tea.

The afternoon sunshine streamed in, creating the most perfect dappled lighting for a relaxed and graceful ballet performance by our wait staff as they deftly maneuvered around the tables. And just when I thought I couldn’t be more delighted, I noticed the intricate details of a giant, stunningly pink floral display! This place truly felt like an artistic paradise, with everything carefully designed and beautifully orchestrated!

As I gaze out across the vibrant cityscape, the golden light of the setting sun makes everything seem so dreamlike, as if I’m floating in my own personal fairy tale!

One of the most special moments of today was a simple one. After a whirlwind of ballet performances and shopping escapades, I took a peaceful moment to sit and admire the swans on the Manchester Canal. There’s such graceful poise and dignity about them as they glide along, reminiscent of a ballerina’s movements, but with an undeniable sense of wildness about them, too.

These swans reminded me of why I started blogging and sharing my love of ballet with the world – because there's magic and beauty everywhere you look, if you just know where to find it.

This adventure has really made me reflect on how my love of ballet influences everything I do. It’s not just about elegant moves and intricate costumes. It’s about self-expression, resilience, finding joy in movement, and most importantly, never, ever giving up on your dreams.

As I’m settling down for the night in my beautiful pink hotel room, I can’t help but think of the joy of spreading this message to all you amazing, inspiring people out there! So here's a challenge: Let’s all aim to make this world a little brighter and more graceful by getting everyone in a pink tutu! What do you say, darlings? Are you ready to twirl with me?

Remember, you can find me on www.pink-tutu.com – every day there’s a new adventure waiting!

Until tomorrow, keep dancing!

XOXO

Emma