Hello my lovely tutu-lovers! 💖 It's Emma here, back from another whirlwind trip, this time to the bustling city of Birmingham! I packed my suitcase with sunshine-yellow tulle, my lucky ballet shoes (pink, of course!), and a head full of excitement. Birmingham has always been a bit of a mystery to me, a hidden gem in the Midlands that whispers of cultural adventures. So, I grabbed my trusty train ticket (first class, naturally!), hopped aboard, and embarked on a journey of discovery.
The moment I stepped off the train, the air crackled with the electric energy of a vibrant city. I loved the buzz of the crowds, the music spilling from the streets, and the vibrant colours splashing everywhere. I knew I had to wear a splash of colour too, so I waltzed into the city centre in my sunshine yellow tutu, a smile blooming on my face. I felt like a ray of sunshine in a sea of grey concrete, a beacon of ballet bliss ready to explore this new haven of dance.
My first stop was the Birmingham Hippodrome, a stunning Victorian theatre, dripping with history and elegance. It was as though the building itself had sprung from the pages of a fairytale, its grandeur and grace leaving me utterly starstruck. The anticipation was palpable as I took my seat, waiting for the curtain to rise on the "Birmingham Royal Ballet." The dancers, like celestial beings, moved with such grace and strength, their every gesture telling a story of love, loss, and triumph. The colours, the music, the emotions – it all transported me into another world. It was pure magic.
Later that afternoon, my tummy rumbling for a taste of Birmingham, I ventured into the Jewellery Quarter. This bustling area is a hidden gem, with its charming cobblestone streets, artisanal shops, and independent cafes, where I enjoyed a delightful cream tea with scones, clotted cream and jam - so British and delightful. I even picked up a dainty silver necklace to adorn my neck, a perfect little souvenir of my adventure.
The day wasn’t just about elegant theatres and charming boutiques; it was also about embracing the wild heart of the city. My next destination: Cannon Hill Park, a haven of green beauty right in the heart of the city. This was my chance to put on my ballerina flats and embrace my inner dancer. With the sun warm on my face and the gentle rustling of leaves in my ears, I pirouetted across the manicured lawns, imagining I was a ballerina on the world's biggest stage. I even met a friendly grey squirrel who seemed to enjoy my ballet steps, its bushy tail twitching in amusement.
Speaking of amusement, no trip to Birmingham would be complete without experiencing its renowned street food scene. In the heart of the city, there are countless options from gourmet burgers to aromatic curries, with something to tempt every palate. As for me, I opted for a delectable hotdog topped with crispy onions and a tangy BBQ sauce. It was the perfect post-ballet snack, giving my tired feet a well-deserved rest.
Evening found me venturing to the vibrant city centre for a delicious dinner, my ballet shoes swapped for comfy pumps. Birmingham truly exceeded all my expectations. I enjoyed the bustle of city life, its elegant architecture, and the warmth of its welcoming people. I even tried out a few of their delicious local dishes - fish and chips, and some scrumptious cake! I always think food is the way to someone's heart, especially if it’s topped with lashings of cream!
And what’s a trip to a new city without some souvenirs? I found the cutest vintage teacups and a stunning rose print scarf to add to my wardrobe - perfect for adding a touch of romance to my everyday attire. I also grabbed some delicious local treats for my family, knowing they would love them just as much as I did.
Birmingham, you left me feeling so inspired. You have embraced your urban energy, its rich cultural history, and the natural beauty of the surrounding countryside. I've added Birmingham to my list of favourite cities, and I’m so happy I got to see the magical city through the eyes of a ballerina. I left feeling happy, recharged and inspired. And maybe, just maybe, you left me with a renewed appreciation for the world.
If you are looking for a place to find new and exciting dance, Birmingham is definitely a place to add to your list. There are plenty of exciting new dance groups starting up here all the time and so many different genres of dance on offer. It's the perfect place for your dance journey. I’ll certainly be back.
See you soon, my lovelies!
Lots of love,
Emma 🩰💖
Don't forget to visit www.pink-tutu.com for more ballerina adventures!
