Oh, darlings, the sun is shining, the birds are singing, and I'm finally in Stratford-upon-Avon, my heart absolutely bursting with excitement! As always, you know I'm here for one very important reason - to soak up the magic of the theatre! But this trip is even more special - I've packed my brand new, totally ethereal fairy tutu - think gossamer wings, sparkling embellishments, and all the magic you can shake a wand at. Just wait till you see it!
Speaking of magical journeys, I couldn't resist arriving in Stratford the traditional way - by train! It was the perfect excuse to don my most fetching pink cashmere jumper and get lost in a book, imagining myself as a leading lady on stage. It's funny how these old steam engines transport you to another time, and suddenly you're whisking back to the era of Shakespeare, complete with lace-up boots, a little touch of rouge, and dreams of romance under the theatre lights. The gentle rocking of the carriages feels so dreamy, and you know what else makes it even more special? I have the BEST secret... I convinced the conductor to let me feed the little brown field mouse that hides beneath his stool in the first carriage. Just look at him, so cute and shy! My little friend, a fellow fan of adventure, is quite partial to a bit of crumbled oatcake, I can tell you! Isn't it the most magical thing? Just one more reason why trains win hands down every time!
But the true enchantment was just beginning. I couldn't wait to arrive at The Royal Shakespeare Company. The theatre itself is so majestic - I just have to sigh with contentment as I gaze upon the stone facade, knowing that within its walls some of the most extraordinary performances in the world are about to unfold. It is truly the most wonderful place! It felt like walking into the heart of a ballet story! The grandeur, the anticipation, the sweet buzz of excitement… I could feel it all!
This time, though, my adventure wasn't just about seeing a show. No, my darlings, this was a quest, a mission of my own to get all you lovelies thinking pink and twirling happily! This magical land is renowned for it’s historic links with William Shakespeare but my heart knows this town will also one day become renowned for it’s embrace of ballet. It just has that fairytale atmosphere, you know!
First on the agenda? Finding the perfect spot in the town for a photoshoot with my magical fairy tutu! After a little explore, I knew where it was meant to be: The beautiful Swan Theatre, the newest building in the RSC family! It felt as if this graceful structure were waiting especially for my magical fairy wings. Just look at this amazing shot, bathed in sunlight streaming through the foliage, a perfect backdrop!
Then, it was time for a quick coffee, and of course, I found the most delicious pink iced latte with little unicorn mallows, at this adorable vintage tearoom with its dainty china and flowery teacups! The friendly owner gave me an entire basket of rose petals to toss around for extra twirl-tastic pictures! Honestly, these little moments really make my day, and add a special sparkle to every adventure.
My day took me next to Shakespeare’s birthplace! It’s an adorable little cottage! Honestly, I thought I’d get swallowed up by all the roses cascading over the quaint brick walls! There were so many bees too, I think they all wanted to come and say hello. My skirt gave a delightful whirl with each sway of my hips! This place felt so historic and full of so much love!
This was the moment my mission truly began. As I posed outside Shakespeare’s birthplace, I did it – I challenged everyone to don a pink tutu. My little message, which I placed on my social media post was simple but effective - "Everyone wear pink, Everyone Dance, Everyone be Happy! Embrace life, embrace laughter, and embrace the wonder that tutus bring! And the best part? It's an open challenge, so get out your tulle and twirl! Share your fun with me on Insta @EmmaTwirls - I want to see your twirly joy!" What do you think? So lovely, isn’t it?
That evening, the big moment finally arrived: It was showtime! This touring production of The Wizard of Oz was just glorious! From the vibrant sets to the magnificent costumes - the whole experience made me want to get on stage and tumble around in a flurry of feathers and glitter myself! The whole show was such a fun experience for my inner child! And honestly, a tutu just seemed so perfect!
For dinner, I indulged in the most charming little vegetarian restaurant, filled with pink floral wallpaper, vintage tables and chairs, and candlelight flickering in cut glass shades. You know I'm all for a touch of glam! The food was a celebration of seasonal produce and tasted so lovely! They even had a delicious vegan rhubarb pie! Such a beautiful way to round off the day.
As the sun set, casting the river in hues of pink and orange, I made my way back to the station. It seemed the entire town was bathed in this soft glow. So much romance! And just before my train pulled away, I got my first message! A gorgeous young lady had taken up my tutu challenge and sent me a video of her doing a beautiful twirl in a pink tutu, laughing and beaming as she posed outside her home in the village next to the church! It filled my heart with so much joy and made me want to cry! This journey has been everything and more, and that little girl's happiness made the whole experience complete!
If you’re dreaming of escaping the everyday for a few hours of enchantment, come on, darlings, take my advice - grab your tutus, hop on a train (or maybe a horse), and lose yourself in the wonder of the stage. And while you're at it, share your twirling adventure on @EmmaTwirls! Let's make the world a little bit more sparkling, a little more fun, and a lot more twirl-tastic together.
Until next time, keep dancing, darlings, and always embrace the magic.
Love and twirls,
Emma
[Link to www.pink-tutu.com]
