(Blog Post Number 9775)
Hello, lovelies! It's Emma, your resident pink-tutu-loving ballerina, bringing you sunshine and twirls straight from the North East! This weekend, I swapped the Derbyshire hills for the bustling streets of Cramlington, and let me tell you, this little town knows how to charm a girl!
As always, my faithful travel companion – my trusty pink tutu – was by my side. She's seen it all, from grand Parisian theatres to charming village squares, and even the occasional train carriage, which is how I arrived in Cramlington! Speaking of train journeys, I'm absolutely smitten with the whole experience. Watching the landscape fly by, listening to the rhythmic clickety-clack of the wheels – it's almost as calming as a good ballet class!
Now, I know some of you are thinking, "Cramlington? Why, Emma? Why?" And I totally get it. It's not exactly known as the 'Ballet Capital of the World'. But here's the thing – I believe in discovering the magic in unexpected places! And Cramlington truly surprised me.
It was a whirlwind weekend of dancing and discoveries. I spent my first afternoon wandering through the town, a beautiful mix of bustling shops and picturesque green spaces. I loved the little park where I spied a group of teenagers attempting to do some street ballet. They had so much enthusiasm! I just had to stop and share a few tips (and of course, offer some enthusiastic encouragement!). Street ballet is a growing phenomenon, you know! It brings ballet to the people in a new and exciting way. Perhaps this was the spark for a future ballerina in Cramlington!
That evening, I headed to the theatre in Cramlington – what a little gem! The interior was surprisingly grand for such a small town, with the stage shimmering like a magical portal. They were hosting a touring company of 'The Nutcracker,' and the atmosphere was electric. I can still hear the sound of those little sugarplum fairies tinkling across the stage, their movements so precise, so full of grace! It's moments like this that make me appreciate just how powerful and beautiful ballet can be.
After the show, I strolled back through the town, the night air alive with the sound of laughter and chatter. It truly felt like a community coming together to celebrate the joy of live performance. And I know some of you might be thinking "Oh Emma, it’s not like the Royal Opera House in London!” but let me tell you, the magic and wonder of ballet doesn’t just reside in those grand, famous venues. It can exist anywhere, anytime. Even in a little town called Cramlington.
Saturday was all about exploration. I decided to go for a scenic walk in the Northumberland National Park, the landscapes absolutely breathtaking, a kaleidoscope of greens, browns, and blues. The countryside was simply begging for a good twirl! So, I did. What's a ballet dancer to do with all that natural beauty around her? I can’t resist a good impromptu pirouette, or maybe even a jeté into the open air! And of course, my trusty pink tutu joined me on my adventures. She wouldn't have it any other way!
I met a lovely group of volunteers from a local wildlife conservation project who are working tirelessly to protect the natural beauty of the park. I spent some time chatting with them, and learned all about the amazing birds that call the park home. It was absolutely fascinating, and you know I love anything to do with animals! I mean, have you ever seen a red squirrel up close? They're so cute and fluffy! They remind me a little of my ballet bun, except, you know, a little furrier and cuter. They even let me help out for an hour, by collecting bird nest data. Honestly, I think it might be a new hobby. What do you think, dear readers?
Sunday morning found me back in the town center. I simply couldn't leave without getting a proper English breakfast – beans, sausages, bacon, eggs – you know the drill! It's not every day I get to indulge in such delicious treats.
As the afternoon drew to a close, I found myself feeling a sense of gratitude. Thank you, Cramlington, for reminding me of the joy in simple things. The joy in nature, in art, in sharing good food with loved ones. The joy of dancing and sharing the beauty of ballet with the world.
Cramlington may not be on everyone’s travel list, but it holds a special place in my heart now. I’m always on the lookout for new destinations, for new places to discover the magic of dance. But there's nothing quite like experiencing that magic in a little, unexpected corner of the world.
Until next time, my dears, keep twirling! Remember, wear pink, wear your tutu, and spread the joy of dance.
Love, Emma x
(Don’t forget to follow me on @PinkTutuTravels for more updates, fun photos, and all things ballet-related! And of course, visit my website www.pink-tutu.com for daily posts, advice, tips, and tons of other inspiration! )
