#TutuBlog #10312
Oh my darlings, I'm back! This time, I've swapped the Peak District for the rolling hills of County Durham, all in the name of ballet, of course. As you know, a tutu never stays still for long, and mine has been yearning to twirl in the north!
Now, you know I'm a girl who loves her trains. There's something so romantic about a chugging engine carrying you towards new adventures. The journey up from Derbyshire was utterly delightful - a tapestry of green fields, charming villages, and glimpses of historic castles. My journey was not just a travel experience, but a ballet of motion - my feet tapping along to the rhythm of the train, a mini pirouette when the carriage swayed slightly. You know how much I love a good train journey - it's almost like my own private performance space.
Arriving in Bishop Auckland, I was instantly captivated by the charming little town. The cobblestone streets, the imposing castle perched on a hill, the colourful buildings... I could feel a whirlwind of inspiration buzzing in my head! What ballet piece could be born from such a storybook backdrop?
The Theatre of Dreams
Of course, my first port of call was The Auckland Castle, an impressive and grand castle which houses the world's largest collection of paintings by Spanish master Francisco Goya. If only Goya could have captured my pink tutu swirling in front of the masterpieces! Then, I took in the magnificent Bishop Auckland Town Hall. So much history and so many beautiful features - truly a jewel of a building.
Now, you know a good show is never complete without the magic of the theatre. And oh my goodness, Bishop Auckland didn't disappoint. They have a wonderful little theatre, The Auckland Town Hall, brimming with potential! Just picture a beautiful ballet production under those old Victorian lamps! Now that's a dream!
Tutu Twirls in a Natural Wonderland
But Bishop Auckland is more than just cobblestones and theatre; it's a haven for nature lovers like myself! You'll find me twirling around the glorious Durham Dales, a region of breathtaking beauty where hills gently slope down to wooded valleys. I envisioned myself performing in the open air, my pink tutu a delicate blossom against a backdrop of verdant foliage. A perfect stage, don't you think?
Oh, and my darling tutu enthusiasts! I was positively delighted to see all the wildflowers – think of them as tiny ballerinas in the wilderness, twirling their petals in the gentle breeze. The yellow daffodils looked like little sunshine ballerinas, and the pink poppies, like miniature red tutus! I couldn't resist grabbing my camera and capturing their natural grace for you. They really did inspire some fantastic ballerina poses.
I even ventured into the charming village of Witton-le-Wear - a beautiful picture postcard town and an ideal spot to relax and unwind. The Bishop Auckland countryside is truly a paradise for anyone who wants to escape the city hustle and reconnect with nature's artistry.
Pink Tutuland: Spreading the Tutu Love
But as much as I love my travels and picturesque scenery, nothing brings me more joy than spreading the gospel of tutus. And Bishop Auckland is becoming my personal pink tutu playground! It turns out there are a surprising number of shops with delightful and stylish tutus available. I even discovered a vintage store tucked away in a back alley that was full of lace, ruffles and gorgeous colours - you'll be seeing me back there for more tutu treasure hunting!
I have been telling everyone I meet about my passion for ballet, urging them to join me in the joyful world of twirling and leaps. Some are already passionate dance lovers, but for others, the concept of wearing a pink tutu is a novelty. But it's always so heartwarming to see their eyes light up when I show them the sheer delight of a graceful twirl or the expressive power of a simple port de bras. I might even get them to try on a pink tutu in my studio soon!
Tutu Takeaways: A Touch of Pink, A Dance of Happiness
This trip to Bishop Auckland has been a complete and utter triumph for the pink tutu princess in me. I've found beauty in the history and heritage, enjoyed nature's elegant spectacle, and spread the pink tutu message to the far reaches of the north. Remember, darling readers, it's never too late to embrace your inner ballerina. Don't be afraid to put on a tutu and twirl with abandon - it's good for your soul!
Till next time, may your days be filled with graceful twirls and sparkling smiles!
Much love,
Emma xx
