Hello my darlings! 🙋♀️ It’s Emma here, and I'm buzzing to share all the pink-tastic fun I've had in Gateshead! This is post number 10621 on www.pink-tutu.com, and I'm bursting with excitement to share all the ballet and beauty I discovered in this charming part of the North East.
I arrived by train, naturally. There’s nothing quite like watching the countryside whizz past, my head buried in a good book (a biography of Anna Pavlova, naturally). The moment I stepped off the train, I could feel a different energy in the air, a little more grit, a little more magic, a whole lot more personality. I just knew I was going to love it here!
Now, before we get to the ballet, I must tell you about my most recent outfit! I knew Gateshead was going to be all about drama, so I picked a stunning white tutu from my collection. It was beautifully detailed, with layers of soft tulle and shimmering sequins that sparkled under the northern lights (okay, it wasn't quite that dramatic, but it felt like it). I paired it with a pale pink satin camisole and a delicate pearl necklace - pure elegance with a touch of sass. Because that’s me, your girl Emma: always ready to twirl!
My first stop was the Gateshead Millennium Bridge. What a vision! This beautiful arching structure gracefully crosses the River Tyne and truly embodies the spirit of this area - modern, bold, and incredibly striking. You could say it was quite ballerinaesque, don't you think? I just had to strike a few poses for the 'gram, obviously, but I did my best to avoid bumping into anyone – it wouldn’t do to knock over a group of Geordie lads enjoying their Sunday stroll, would it? 😂
After that, I headed to the Sage Gateshead, a breathtaking building that truly steals your heart with its distinctive shape and gleaming glass facade. It was all so incredibly chic - and what better place to soak up the elegance than with a glass of something sparkly and a beautiful view across the Tyne? My goodness, I could've stayed there all day, but I had another date... with destiny, of course! It was ballet time! 🩰
The show was a modern piece performed by the Northern Ballet Theatre. They were exceptional, truly incredible. Their athleticism was mesmerising, the music was beautiful, and the story was thought-provoking, making me reflect on life, love, and everything in between. (Okay, maybe not quite everything – but you know what I mean.) I'm not ashamed to say, I teared up a few times. My heart just aches for the magic of dance, especially when performed so brilliantly. I left the theatre with a feeling of pure joy and inspiration – and of course, that "I need to find my pink tutu and just start dancing" urge. 💃
Now, for the best part: my discovery of Gateshead’s vibrant wildlife! After my ballet fix, I took a lovely walk along the banks of the River Tyne. Imagine my surprise when I saw a whole family of grey seals frolicking in the water, seemingly unaware of their admirers watching from afar. These beautiful creatures were so playful and charismatic; it really filled me with a sense of awe. This city definitely has a wild side, even amidst the urban buzz. It's almost enough to make a girl forget her own urban jungle of a dressing table, wouldn't you agree?
Oh, but there was one thing I found even more striking than the grey seals: a fabulous independent vintage shop just a hop, skip and jump from the Tyne. Let me tell you, it was full of beautiful treasures! I found the most charming old lace blouse, perfect for layering under my tutus. Honestly, I don’t know how I managed to resist grabbing an entire wardrobe - it was that good! But a girl’s gotta have a limit, even when faced with fashion heaven. 😉
My trip to Gateshead was a whirlwind of amazing experiences. I absolutely fell in love with its quirky charm and vibrancy. This place definitely lives and breathes – it's full of personality and unexpected delights, making it a perfect stop for any dance-loving, tutu-wearing, and wildlife-enthusiast traveler (especially if you're on a journey by train, just like yours truly!)
If you're looking for your next dance-inspired adventure, make sure to put Gateshead on your list! I know it'll make a big impact on you just as it did on me. And as always, I leave you with a message to wear your heart on your sleeve - and even more importantly, on your tutu! 💕 Until next time, darlings!
Love and twirls,
Emma x