Post Number 10879
Hello darlings! It’s Emma, your resident pink-tutu-clad ballerina extraordinaire, signing in live from Gateshead, the bustling heart of the North East! I’ve swapped my Derbyshire countryside for industrial chic this week, and oh my, it’s been a whirlwind of tutus, trains, and even a glimpse of the majestic River Tyne!
This journey started with a delightful train ride. You know how much I adore travelling by train - that clackety-clack of the rails, the view whizzing by, and the opportunity to get lost in a good book or even whip out my trusty sketchpad. This time, I indulged in a pot of Earl Grey tea and a little people-watching. There was a sweet little girl next to me with a bright pink backpack - her Mum had carefully tied a sparkly pink ribbon around her pigtails. Oh, I just love seeing how ballet captures the imagination of the next generation!
Gateshead itself is an energetic city. They’ve got this amazing Sage Gateshead venue, a sleek concert hall built right by the River Tyne. Talk about striking architecture! It’s a little different from the rolling hills and stately homes of Derbyshire, but in a fabulously captivating way.
Now, let’s talk tutus! Since I’m always pushing the boundaries of tutu fashion, this week I decided to embrace a daring, fiery red tutu. It’s a little different from my usual blush pink and lavender tones, but this dramatic scarlet red just calls out for adventure!
First stop on my Gateshead journey was the legendary Ballet North. I mean, seriously, can you even say "Ballet North" without feeling a thrill?! They put on an amazing performance of "The Sleeping Beauty." I've seen it many times before, but the energy here, the sheer raw talent of the dancers, just blew me away. The ballerina playing Aurora was phenomenal - her grace and athleticism were absolutely mesmerising! And you just had to love the playful pink, purple and shimmering green hues in the costumes - oh, how I love those fantastical, fairytale ballet sets!
Speaking of pink, after the performance I stumbled upon this incredible vintage tea room, nestled in a cobbled street right next to the theatre. The walls were painted in the most exquisite shade of baby pink, there were lace doilies everywhere, and of course, endless teacups! I indulged in a delicious raspberry and pistachio slice and the most delightfully fragrant, creamy tea. Talk about a ballet-lover's dream come true!
My day wouldn't be complete without a little ballet class. I managed to squeeze in a session at the Gateshead Ballet School - it was such a refreshing change to the traditional classes I usually take back home. Here, they really encourage the expression of individual artistry. We experimented with improvisations, played with the energy of the music, and let loose! It felt exhilarating, empowering, and deeply fulfilling - exactly what I needed after a week of travelling.
But no trip to Gateshead would be complete without seeing the iconic Angel of the North. You know how I love my wildlife - but this graceful sculpture soaring over the landscape, a monument to the hard-working people of the region, made me feel truly touched by the spirit of this extraordinary place.
The River Tyne flowed alongside my entire adventure, reminding me of the endless journey life offers us, full of excitement, new discoveries, and always, always a touch of magic!
This journey has reminded me why I adore travelling in tutus. It's a wonderful way to explore new places, connect with the world around me, and always feel a touch of grace and beauty no matter where I am.
Until next time, darlings! Keep your spirits high and your twirls ever-present!
Love, Emma
