Hello lovelies! It's Emma here, back from a whirlwind trip to Wellington, New Zealand, and let me tell you, it was absolutely tutu-rific!
This adventure began, as many do, with a train journey - the kind that allows for breathtaking views and endless dreaming. The countryside, all rolling hills and vibrant green, made me feel like I was stepping into a scene from my favourite ballet.
Arriving in Wellington, the wind in my hair and the excitement in my heart, I felt an instant connection to the city. The harbour, a shimmering expanse of blue, mirrored my own love for all things watery.
As soon as I checked into my boutique hotel (all pastel pink, of course!), I had to find a ballet class. My pink tutu and I, we love exploring the world through pirouettes and arabesques. Thankfully, Wellington's ballet scene is as vibrant as its colourful street art! The studio was filled with enthusiastic dancers of all ages, and the instructor was simply divine. We flew through a graceful routine, and even managed a few pliés amidst the laughter.
That evening, I decided to take a walk through the Wellington Botanic Garden. Now, I have to confess, I'm a bit of a wild child at heart - animals, particularly birds, have always fascinated me. These gardens were alive with birdsong, and I couldn't resist snapping a few pics of the vibrant Tui with their emerald and turquoise feathers. They're like little feathered fairies, don't you think?
The following day was a true ballet lover's dream - I had tickets to a performance by the Royal New Zealand Ballet! I settled into my plush seat, surrounded by fellow tutu-enthusiasts (although I have to say, my emerald green tutu really stood out!).
The stage was a flurry of movement and emotion, with a stunning choreography that captivated every fibre of my being. From the elegant movements to the intricate footwork, it was a true spectacle of artistry. You could almost feel the stories unfold, weaving themselves into the air with every graceful step.
My evenings were filled with a touch of theatre. The quirky, vibrant cafes and pubs around town drew me in with their live music, theatrical performances, and friendly atmosphere. Wellington is truly a place where art flourishes!
One evening, while enjoying a cup of tea (and a slice of pink cake, of course!), I struck up a conversation with a lovely woman named Amelia. It turned out she was an aspiring ballet dancer and shared my passion for spreading the love of dance! She confided in me that she felt too nervous to wear a tutu in public, but I gently reminded her that ballet is about self-expression, about letting your spirit fly, and that sometimes, it takes a little bit of courage to embrace the magic within!
I shared with her a little about my journey, about how I began with just a tiny pink tutu, feeling shy but determined to express myself through dance. I shared the story of my first ever performance - a wobbly yet passionate "Swan Lake" in my living room for my beloved family. I encouraged her to try a few steps at home, to feel the grace within herself, and maybe, just maybe, even wear a tutu.
On my last day, I decided to explore Wellington Harbour on horseback. The sun glistened off the water, and the wind tousled my hair. I couldn't help but feel like a princess riding off to meet a valiant knight - but of course, my knight was really just a very handsome, very patient horse!
As the sun set on my adventure, I bid farewell to the charming city of Wellington. I packed my emerald green tutu away with a feeling of profound gratitude, for the memories, the laughter, and the shared love of ballet that I found there.
Wellington, you've stolen my heart, with your vibrant colours, your open spaces, and your infectious energy. I'll never forget my adventures in your enchanting embrace, and I'll be back for more soon.
And for my dear Amelia, and everyone out there, I say this - embrace the freedom, embrace the colour, embrace the tutu!
Remember, life is a ballet, and it's waiting for you to twirl!
Keep twirling, Emma xx
