#TutuBlog #10221
Hello darlings! It’s Emma here, ready to whisk you away to the charming town of Morley on a whimsical adventure in pink and tulle! This is the second stop on my 'Tutu Tour' this summer, following my adventures in picturesque York, and already Morley is turning out to be another real fairytale experience.
Today, I chose the perfect tutu for a sunny summer’s day, a vibrant fuchsia creation that whispered promises of happiness and laughter. As I twirled off the train, the station was bathed in a golden light that shimmered on the tutu’s frills like a thousand tiny rainbows. It's amazing how the right tutu can instantly make even a boring old railway platform feel like a stage.
Now, let’s be honest – Morley isn’t exactly on the international ballet circuit, but let me tell you, that's what makes this adventure even more enchanting. I’ve found myself drawn to exploring those places where the rhythm of life unfolds a little slower, and you really get to see the beauty in the everyday. And Morley, oh darling, is brimming with charm! Just wandering the streets, admiring the pastel-hued Victorian houses, listening to the murmur of the market square, feeling the warm sunshine on my face – it’s enough to make even the most seasoned ballerina feel like a blushing debutante!
Before even reaching my destination, the ‘Queen's Arms’ hotel, I stumbled upon a scene straight out of my wildest dreams – a horse-drawn carriage! Oh, the romanticism! This magnificent creature was adorned with a cascade of pink ribbons and even sported a little miniature tutu! You bet I couldn't resist a quick photoshoot with it before hopping on board for a short trip around town! (It even wore its own little saddle, too cute!). Now, that’s the type of charming serendipity I adore!
After a quick change into a more comfortable outfit (no ballet tutu on horseback, darlings!), I popped into a charming tea shop called 'The Bluebell', known for its delectable pastries and friendly staff. The afternoon tea was a dream - perfectly dainty cucumber sandwiches, scrumptious scones with lashings of clotted cream and jam, and a pot of hot tea for an English summer day. And let’s not forget the little bluebell decorations! (Bluebells, pink tutus…the colour theme here is practically bursting!), Everything just screamed ‘feminine elegance’ – my favourite!
Then it was off to Morley’s ‘Heritage Centre’ - a must-see for history buffs and art lovers! They even had a lovely little collection of antique dolls - each dressed in gorgeous dresses, just like little miniature ballerinas. The local history section had a beautiful collection of Victorian photographs, featuring many people in elegant clothes - oh, what fashion trends we’ve lost! I tried my best to channel a bit of that Victorian grace whilst touring the exhibitions!
As the sun began to set, casting a rosy glow on the cobbled streets, I made my way to a beautiful spot beside the River Calder. The calmness and stillness of the river brought peace to my soul, perfect for a bit of reflection and appreciation for my little pink tutu adventure!
I always love seeing what other tutus and ballet attire my fellow dancers wear when travelling! This town has had such a wonderful, charming vintage vibe that I’ve enjoyed seeing a more classic style worn, like tutus made with light airy netting or in some elegant cotton styles, almost reminiscent of dancers from bygone eras! They look amazing! I particularly adored one tutu, a graceful cloud of pale lilac adorned with vintage lace and a stunningly large vintage broach – a touch of elegant Parisian charm that perfectly embodied the spirit of the day.
But it wouldn’t be a truly Emma adventure without a ballet touch! Luckily, the 'Morley Arts Centre' hosted an absolutely gorgeous, contemporary ballet show featuring young, local talent. This theatre isn’t some fancy West End theatre or Royal Opera House! It’s a small community space - but even on that small, intimate stage, every gesture felt profound. Every pirouette was magical! The passion and artistry on that little stage truly reminded me of why I fell in love with ballet in the first place – the ability to move, to express, to feel…pure, unadulterated joy!
As I drift off to sleep, my head full of graceful pirouettes, the pink of the evening sky blurring with my fluffy tulle, I can’t help but smile. Today’s been a perfect reminder that life is filled with wonder. Just like Morley itself, there’s beauty and magic to be found everywhere. Even a simple pink tutu can ignite joy, create a shared moment, and become a passport to new adventures.
If you're feeling brave enough to take your own Tutu Tour, I dare you to step out of your comfort zone, wear a pink tutu with pride, and embrace the wonder of it all! Don’t forget to take some fabulous photos to show off those amazing twirls! (Be sure to tag me, darlings!)
And for all those wanting to know – tomorrow, my adventures take me to the rolling countryside of the Yorkshire Dales, and a delightful ‘Yorkshire Ballet Summer School’, where I can immerse myself in some truly incredible dance and hopefully teach everyone about the magic of tutus. You’ll definitely want to read that blog, darlings!
Love,
Emma xx
