#TutuBlog 2023-05-31 in Croydon with a pink tutu.

Hello, my fellow tutu-lovers! It's Emma here, back from another whirlwind adventure, and this time I'm bringing you sunshine, sparkles, and Croydon! Yes, you read that right – Croydon. I know what you're thinking, "Emma, Croydon?! But you're a ballerina! Surely you're headed for some grand theatre, not the south London suburbs!"

Well, hold your horses (pun intended, of course, since I do love a good train journey!). Croydon, with its hidden gems and bustling energy, is turning out to be the surprise hit of my week! And guess what? Pink tutus have found their perfect match in Croydon's unexpected charm.

Before I tell you all about it, let me paint a picture: Derbyshire countryside one day, train-chugging excitement the next. The carriage was full of friendly faces, a fellow ballet enthusiast even gave me a knowing nod when I was twirling (lightly!) to the rhythmic click-clack of the tracks. Oh, the joy of feeling like you belong wherever you go!

I love exploring, but I also love returning to the familiar, to my haven, to that feeling of being home. As I stepped off the train in Croydon, I was struck by this odd sense of homecoming. Maybe it was the familiar whiff of freshly-baked pastries wafting from a bakery nearby, or perhaps it was the lively energy of the crowd. Whatever it was, Croydon embraced me like a dear old friend, and my pink tutu, it seemed, felt equally at home.

I'd heard whisperings about Croydon’s growing arts scene, and boy, was I eager to see for myself. It felt like every other building I passed had a vibrant exhibition or a performance happening. Even a simple coffee stop ended up being an impromptu dance performance for me, when the barista started humming "Swan Lake" (don't tell her I'm making fun, but I actually think she was good!)

Now, you're all familiar with my obsession for tutus. Imagine my delight when I found myself browsing through the beautiful fabrics and trims at Croydon's market! It’s one thing to appreciate the colourful fabrics from afar, but it’s quite another to touch the exquisite textures, and feel the creativity buzzing in the air. It got me thinking: imagine a pink tutu with shimmering velvet details! Or perhaps a delicate tulle overlay with intricate hand-embroidery, maybe even a splash of neon green or lilac for a splash of colour. Ah, the possibilities are endless!

I finally found myself at the grand Croydon Town Hall – the hub of all things cultural and theatrical in the area. They're hosting the most wonderful performance, a ballet interpretation of "Romeo and Juliet." It’s not the traditional, classical version that everyone’s used to. The choreographer, a young local talent, has put a very modern, almost edgy twist on it.

Even though it wasn't a "traditional" performance, I was enthralled! The dancers, some seasoned veterans, some fresh out of the ballet academy, breathed such emotion and intensity into the production, it was spellbinding. I found myself both laughing and crying (yes, a little bit!), with my pink tutu bouncing in happy, sad rhythm right alongside.

My heart skipped a beat when I noticed a familiar face: a dear friend from my ballet classes back in Derbyshire, now a solo dancer! It felt amazing to see her excel, to witness the fruits of all her hard work. I ran backstage to give her a big hug – she still had that adorable glint in her eyes, but now there was a glint of triumph too, and that's something that warms the heart.

One of the best things about my Croydon adventure has been seeing pink tutus pop up everywhere I go! The most adorable sight, and the reason I believe this post will go down in "Pink-Tutu" history!

First, imagine my excitement: walking through the charming old town and seeing the cutest little independent shop. The name? "Pink Tutu Boutique"! And guess what they sell? A variety of beautiful accessories and gift items, with a splash of pink here and a touch of tutu there. I spent an hour lost in a wonderland of pink hairbands, tutus for every occasion (from birthday parties to grand opera performances!), and even adorable pink tutu-shaped soap! It's true – you really can never have enough pink in your life!

Even the most unexpected spots, the "less-touristy" areas, had a splash of pink! A lovely family running a small street cafe decorated their stall with twinkling pink lights – pure fairytale vibes! And then there was this incredible street art mural that just begged to be seen with my pink tutu. Imagine, a vibrant explosion of colours on a weathered brick wall, featuring a ballerina in a dazzling pink tutu taking flight! Pure inspiration!

But it wasn't all tutus and twinkling lights. My journey took me through some stunning natural beauty. I had a chance to explore Croydon's very own mini-jungle – Addington Park! Picture this: the fresh air on my face, dappled sunshine through leafy canopies, and the softest sounds of nature. My inner wild child couldn't resist a good dance through the wildflowers. Yes, you guessed it! I'm not ashamed to say my pink tutu made an appearance. The butterflies seemed to love it. (Don't worry, they're safe!)

And who wouldn't love a little bit of "wildlife" spotting with their afternoon tea? The park housed the most enchanting butterfly house, filled with fluttering wings and vibrant colours. And the tea house was divine. I had the most delicious pink lemonade with fresh fruit – a perfect end to a fabulous day.

This trip, in true Emma-style, has been full of whimsy and wonder. Croydon might not be on everyone's usual "must-see" list, but my dear readers, I’m here to tell you it’s a hidden gem. I urge you to take a trip and discover it for yourself. Don't forget, there's a little pink tutu in each of you waiting to be unleashed!

So, if you're looking for an unexpected adventure, where you can embrace your inner ballerina, and perhaps even spot a few pink tutus, Croydon is the place to be. And you know what, maybe I'll be there too, with a brand-new pink tutu, ready to dance the day away with all of you. See you soon, darlings!

Remember, my lovelies, the world's a stage, and it’s time to put on your pink tutu and shine!