Hello my lovely darlings! It's your favourite pink-tutu-wearing, glitter-bombing, all-things-sparkly drag queen, Pink Tutu Sparkles! It’s Monday, the sun is shining (well, it was shining as I set off from the station this morning) and I’m ready to share all about my amazing trip to Grays, Essex! This is post number 94 on www.pink-tutu.com, and I'm feeling SO excited to tell you all about my adventures.
You see, my fabulous followers, Grays has been calling my name for months! I've heard whispers about its charm, its hidden gems, and most importantly, its enthusiasm for all things theatrical! The pull was too strong to resist, and so, after a few weeks of meticulous planning, my suitcase was packed to the brim with the most fabulous, pinkest tutus, glitter, and of course, the most fabulous outfits for my performance! (I mean, you have to have a show-stopping costume for every show, right?).
Speaking of performances, that’s how I get to fund my travels - by dazzling crowds at events across the country. Did you know, back in Derbyshire where I grew up, my life used to be so different? I studied science (you know, lab coats and beakers and all that!), and I still work part-time as a textile scientist, testing fabrics and helping designers create new materials. But when I’m not wearing a lab coat, I'm performing! It all started back when I was in the university ballet club. We were having a charity event, and I tried on a tutu for a laugh. I know, you'd never believe it! This awkward, science-loving girl, transformed by a simple tutu into Pink Tutu Sparkles, the Queen of sparkle!
I'm actually quite partial to trains, as a mode of transportation. Yes, a scientist, a drag queen and a train-lover, isn't that a wild combination?! My Grays adventure began on a glorious train journey that whisked me away from the hustle and bustle of the city, to the tranquil countryside of Essex. My carriage, decorated with floral patterns and quaint wood paneling, was the perfect setting for a spot of tea, a couple of jam sandwiches, and the start of my daily ritual: applying a glamorous layer of makeup, perfecting my lip-syncing, and of course, choosing my first outfit of the day! (There's never just one!).
And oh my, let me tell you about my outfits! I brought an absolute rainbow of them for Grays. One, a bright hot pink tulle masterpiece, with layers upon layers of feather boas and gleaming sequins - a definite crowd pleaser, perfect for that extra bit of "oomph" during my final show. Another, a turquoise number adorned with glittering stars and a flowing skirt (ideal for twirling on stage, and getting a bit of wind through the tulle). And don't even get me started on the shoes! I practically had my own footwear department!
Grays didn’t disappoint. The moment I stepped out of the train station, I was greeted by the sweet aroma of warm apple pie wafting from a quaint little bakery. (Of course, I just had to indulge in a delicious slice with a steaming cup of Earl Grey! It was perfection!). A gentle breeze tickled my face as I walked down the pedestrianized street lined with charming independent shops. The shops displayed an array of local crafts and antiques, the sort that spark my creative imagination, and make me crave the next costume design for my drag performances.
I was particularly smitten with "The Rusty Compass," a unique shop selling vintage jewellery and accessories. (And yes, I snagged a gorgeous pink necklace that will make a spectacular addition to one of my outfits – pink on pink – yes, it was a must have).
I had to squeeze in a spot of retail therapy at a boutique called "La Fleur," a beautiful independent store with a captivating selection of vintage clothing. Oh my darling readers, you can’t imagine my joy at finding a fabulous, sequined, vintage dress with a hint of the “Grays, Essex,” flair about it, perfect for the grand finale of my weekend performance. (I simply can’t spoil all the surprises!).
Speaking of the weekend, I had been invited to perform at "The Rusty Mermaid", a lively, historic pub known for its vibrant community and welcoming atmosphere. (There's nothing more fulfilling for me than to spread my message of fun and joy - it just wouldn't feel complete without making a difference!). But the real star of the show was The Rusty Mermaid's annual "Summer Fling" - a magical festival celebrating the vibrant local arts and culture.
It's a testament to my "Pink Tutu Sparkles" philosophy: a joyful and playful take on life. (But don't think for a moment I don't have an empowering and poignant message behind all those sequins and feathers. In my own little way, I want to encourage every individual to celebrate themselves, and to express their own uniqueness, in whatever form it takes!).
Grays was bustling with laughter, music, and of course, colourful, inspiring creativity of every imaginable kind. The local artists were remarkable. Every booth was bursting with paintings, handmade jewelry, and beautifully crafted objects, all with their own special flair, all testament to the magic of human creativity!
And did I tell you I was riding a horse in Grays? The “Grays Equestrian Centre" provided the opportunity for a fun, exciting, exhilarating horseback ride in the picturesque Essex countryside. That’s the Pink Tutu Sparkles approach to travel: combining fun and fashion, indulging my creative flair, experiencing the joy of getting to know local culture and artists, and finding a way to encourage the most fabulous side of life. It’s an important mission and a passion of mine to bring people together with a little bit of glitter, a dash of sunshine, and a sprinkle of "Pink Tutu Sparkles."
To give you an idea of what went down in Grays, you HAVE to see the pictures I posted! I've created a gallery of images (and a few short videos!) on www.pink-tutu.com, you've got to go have a look! You'll see what I mean about that unique "Grays, Essex" flair - it’s something that definitely seeped into my Pink Tutu Sparkle energy. It was like a breath of fresh air, filled with a genuine and welcoming spirit, and I couldn’t be happier!
This is my way of saying "thank you" to every single one of you for joining me on my adventures. It's always wonderful to be on the road sharing my love of all things pink and sparkly (I can’t believe how often I find the opportunity to don a new pink tutu! But that’s just a normal day for me - well, an extraordinary day, full of sparkling memories that make me who I am).
So, let's spread some sparkle, darlings! Get ready to embrace the world in all its glittery goodness.
Don’t forget to subscribe to www.pink-tutu.com and join me on my fabulous, ever-sparkling journey!
Until next time, lovelies!
Lots of glitter, Pink Tutu Sparkles!
