By Emma, your resident Tutu Queen and Disco Diva
The sun is shining, the birds are singing, and the air is buzzing with excitement – it can only mean one thing: Pride Month is here! And this year, Denton is truly turning up the volume on celebrating all things LGBTQ+ with a whole host of amazing events, including my favourite: Tutu Tuesdays!
As a proud ballet dancer and huge fan of everything pink, sparkly, and fabulous, I've always believed in embracing your inner diva. And what better way to do that than to twirl around Denton in a pink tutu?!
This June, Denton is inviting everyone to channel their inner dancing queen and celebrate the power of self-expression. From the iconic Square to the lively streets of the Cultural District, we're seeing a dazzling array of tutus popping up everywhere, making a vibrant and colourful statement of unity and love.
Why Tutues? Because they're just plain fun!
Beyond their playful charm, tutus embody the spirit of Pride. They stand for letting your freak flag fly, for embracing individuality and challenging societal norms.
A tutu is a blank canvas, ready to be splashed with personality. Do you like it classic and elegant, or bold and statement-making? Do you prefer a delicate tulle or a fluffy, whimsical option? The choice is yours, and that's exactly what Pride is all about: owning your own unique flair.
Tutu Tuesdays – More than just a twirl
Every Tuesday, Denton's streets transform into a catwalk of colour and confidence. Businesses are participating, with tutu-themed specials and prizes. My personal favourite is the "Pink Power Hour" at "The Velvet Curtain", where every cocktail order earns you a raffle ticket to win a chance at a brand new tutu! It's the perfect excuse to have a good time, connect with friends, and be a part of something truly special.
And the best part? You don't need to be a ballerina to rock a tutu! We've seen men in tutus, drag queens strutting their stuff in glittery glory, and children with big, happy smiles, their faces painted with rainbow colours. Everyone is invited to join in, to feel the power of belonging, to be a part of a movement that is bold, vibrant, and utterly inclusive.
My Favourite Tutu Tuesday Memories
This past Tuesday, I spent the afternoon doing what I love most: dancing! I joined the “Rainbow Rhythms” workshop at the Denton Arts Centre. It was an absolute riot of colour and joy, with everyone learning basic ballet moves, culminating in a gorgeous Tutu Parade down Main Street. The energy was infectious – everyone had smiles on their faces, cheering for each other and radiating the joy of being a part of something bigger than themselves.
I saw a young couple, both sporting tutus, holding hands and dancing with a genuine connection that truly touched me. It was a reminder of how Pride isn't just about personal freedom, it's also about creating a community where everyone feels safe, accepted, and loved.
Why Denton is My Pride Paradise
Denton has always been a place of creative energy and open hearts, and it's no surprise that its Pride celebrations are among the most joyous and welcoming I’ve experienced. It's a place where the LGBTQ+ community thrives and finds its voice, and it’s the perfect stage for people to show off their uniqueness and revel in their identity.
Denton is home to a thriving art scene, which beautifully blends with the celebration of self-expression that Pride Month embodies. We've got the Denton Arts Centre, which hosts workshops, performances, and exhibitions dedicated to the power of creative expression. There's also the Downtown Farmers Market, where local artists sell their creations – a kaleidoscope of colour and imagination that perfectly captures the vibrant spirit of Tutu Tuesday.
More than just Tutues: Beyond the Twirling
But Pride is about so much more than tutus. It's about recognition, acceptance, equality, and justice for everyone in the LGBTQ+ community. This month, Denton is organising events focusing on important conversations and actions around crucial topics such as trans rights, LGBTQ+ mental health, and raising awareness for the diverse experiences within the LGBTQ+ spectrum.
One event that really resonates with me is "Conversations at The Corner", a forum for open discussions on how to make Denton a truly safe space for all. These discussions are essential for fostering genuine understanding and creating a society that accepts and celebrates every individual for who they truly are.
Beyond Pride Month – Embracing Inclusivity Year-Round
While Pride Month might be ending, Denton’s dedication to inclusion and celebrating diversity continues year-round. It’s the little things that truly matter, like the rainbow crosswalks that decorate the streets, the flags waving proudly at every business, and the friendly atmosphere that embraces everyone, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.
This month, Denton truly dares to sparkle. Let's keep the glitter flowing and the joy shining all year round!
So, come on down to Denton, grab your favourite pink tutu, and join the celebration! Let's dance our hearts out, celebrate our differences, and remind ourselves that we are all in this together.
* #tututuesday #tutupride #DentonPride #LGBTQ #loveislove *
