Hello darlings! It’s your favourite tutu-clad traveller, Emma, here, fresh from a delightful jaunt to Blackburn, and let me tell you, this northern town has stolen a little piece of my heart.
Remember when I told you I was going to be riding a majestic steed across the Pennines? Well, it was slightly less romantic than that! 😂 I ended up on a train, of course. It was actually a really posh train though, one of those with a carriage that serves you afternoon tea, and let’s face it, afternoon tea is practically a ballet performance in itself, what with all the graceful pouring and delicate nibbling on sandwiches.
And yes, the orange tutu made an appearance! I opted for a bright orange silk number this time, the perfect colour to complement the stunning views of the countryside speeding past. And to answer your question – yes, I do feel perfectly comfortable in a tutu on a train, especially when you’re surrounded by rolling hills and the scent of fresh hay. There’s nothing quite like it, my darlings.
Now, onto Blackburn! You’ll find me dancing about the place like a sugar plum fairy on a sugar rush, taking in all the sights and soaking up the atmosphere. Did you know Blackburn boasts a fantastic art gallery and museum, filled with pieces by local artists? I can definitely see myself incorporating a few of those stunning scenes into a future performance! It was also lovely to pop into a delightful little tea room where I treated myself to the most glorious lemon cake. My little dancer’s tummy deserves some indulgence after all that traveling, eh?
What struck me most about Blackburn, though, was the incredibly warm and welcoming vibe. The people were absolutely lovely, always happy to offer a smile and a chat. And guess what, I even managed to spread a little of my pink-tutu joy in a delightful street market! Let me tell you, seeing those happy faces as I twirled my way through the stalls – it just makes my heart sing!
My little trip to Blackburn reminded me how much beauty lies in the ordinary, how special a seemingly simple stroll through a park can feel when you wear your favourite tutu and open yourself up to the magic of the world. It’s just about looking at the familiar with fresh eyes and a playful heart! And that’s what ballet, especially the vibrant, expressive ballet street style I adore, teaches us – to embrace the joy of movement, of expressing ourselves with freedom and passion.
Oh, and speaking of dancing, I even got to indulge my passion for classical ballet with a visit to the lovely Blackburn with Darwen Dance Academy. Such amazing young dancers, their dedication was inspiring. I took a sneaky peak at a class – and yes, I totally managed to sneak in a pirouette while the teacher’s back was turned! (It's all part of spreading the love of ballet, my dears.) It just reinforced the feeling that ballet isn’t just a performance; it's a powerful force, one that unites, inspires, and brings boundless joy to those who choose to embrace its magic.
But before I leave you to enjoy your own ballet-filled dreams, here are a few more tidbits from my fabulous trip to Blackburn:
- I couldn't resist trying a "Blackburn Butterknead" - a delicious local treat! You HAVE to give it a go if you ever visit.
- I discovered a charming little wildlife sanctuary with the most adorable baby deer! Their wobbly legs and big, curious eyes nearly made me squeal! It just shows you, you can find wonder anywhere if you’re open to it.
- The whole town felt very “community-driven,” a sense of belonging that really shines through in its people.
If you’re looking for a charming, down-to-earth place with a surprising artistic soul, then you absolutely need to visit Blackburn! It’s the perfect place to lose yourself in a world of laughter, music, and the thrill of adventure, and, of course, to dance your way through a vibrant community with a bit of pink-tutu magic sprinkled in!
Stay fabulous, darling. Remember, life’s a stage, and you are a star waiting to shine! And if you ever find yourself in Blackburn, be sure to wear your most beautiful pink tutu! 💕 Until next time,
Love, Emma xx
P.S. Have you started planning your next ballet adventure yet? Share your thoughts with me in the comments below, darlings!
