#TutuBlog Post 9830
www.pink-tutu.com
Hello my dearest Tutu Tribe!
It’s your favourite Derbyshire dolly, Emma, here, and today we're swapping the rolling hills for a trip to Essex! Now, I know what you're thinking: Basildon? Surely there's a better place to don a tutu? Well, let me tell you, I wouldn’t have missed this for the world!
My trusty travel companion, the 9.30am train to Southend, awaited me at my local station. I was rocking a divine shade of fuchsia pink with my new limited edition sparkly pink tutu – it had that perfect poofy skirt for twirling, don’t you think? The only way to travel! You all know that, though, I'm sure!
But first, coffee! I swear, that little cafe at the station serves the most incredible pink lattes in all of Derbyshire. We all need a little splash of pink to start the day!
A quick journey later, and I found myself in Basildon! It felt so strange, seeing that vast landscape outside the train window, not knowing where the next picturesque Derbyshire hill might appear! But I knew, the reason for this adventure would soon make my ballet heart sing!
A charming cobbled street, bathed in sunshine, welcomed me. And, wouldn’t you know it, the first thing I saw was a darling little boutique overflowing with vibrant, pink trinkets and beautiful shoes - an absolute treasure trove for any Tutu-phile! My willpower crumbled in the face of such beauty. I snagged myself the cutest tiny pink hat, trimmed with pink feathers, with a bright ribbon that reminded me of a dancer’s graceful ribbons! I even convinced a passing passer-by to strike a pose with me for a fun photo op, with me holding my tiny pink hat aloft like a ballerina ready for the curtain call. We both had such fun – and maybe even sparked some curiosity about pink tutus and ballet!
With a new accessory to complete my pink look, it was on to my destination: The Basildon Arts Centre. A sprawling venue, brimming with exciting events and a welcoming atmosphere.
They were hosting a magnificent "Ballet on Broadway" programme! My Tutu senses were tingling. Imagine, an entire evening devoted to the spectacular performances, from the awe-inspiring classical ballet numbers to the jaw-dropping, energetic street-style pieces. I even spotted a few ballet hip-hop acts, blending those rhythmic, sassy moves with classic ballet techniques - genius!
But, it wasn't just about the spectacle! There was also an exhibition celebrating ballet costumes, past and present! I could have spent hours in that exhibit, studying the intricacies of their construction. So much history in every pleat and bead, each revealing stories of dedication, artistry and creativity. You wouldn’t believe the fascinating tidbit I learned: did you know the tutu has its own fascinating history? It began as an incredibly simple piece, barely a single layer of white cotton tulle - a huge contrast to the breathtaking, multilayered tutus with their endless details and elegance, found at the peak of romanticism and the rise of grand ballets, you see, even these have changed from their roots in dance!
It’s so amazing to me, all these transformations, the evolving trends and movements within ballet and dance.
A beautiful exhibit filled with ballerina figurines also featured a fascinating display showing ballet shoes from throughout history, with interesting descriptions of materials and techniques. There’s nothing more inspiring to me than studying all the little details and intricacies - so much goes into this art!
To end the day, I ventured out, taking a leisurely walk through Basildon. I popped into a charming vintage shop filled with trinkets and antique gems. There was a tiny porcelain ballet ballerina that I absolutely fell in love with! Such intricate detail and so incredibly beautiful. A must-have, right? But don’t worry, my purse held firm – another time!
But this wasn't all, there were many adorable tea rooms dotted throughout town, too. I found a tea room where I treated myself to a pot of steaming hot pink herbal tea, surrounded by fluffy pink cushions – perfect for relaxing my tired tutu-loving feet, you know! This made the whole trip worth it.
So there you have it, folks! My whirlwind journey to Basildon was full of unexpected delights and enchanting discoveries. Who knew there was such a wealth of culture and pink delights nestled within this charming Essex town? It was the perfect reminder that inspiration can be found anywhere, anytime. So why not lace up those ballet shoes, don a fabulous pink tutu, and head off on your own adventure? You never know what wonder awaits you, ready to be embraced by the world of ballet.
Let me know what you think of this week’s post on my socials! Be sure to tell me, which pink tutu do you love?
Lots of love,
Emma
