Hey there, darlings! It’s Pink Tutu Sparkles here, and I’m buzzing to be bringing you my 717th post, live and direct from the fabulous shores of North Shields! This enchanting seaside town, nestled on the banks of the mighty River Tyne, has been a breath of fresh air for this queen. ✨
Now, I know what you’re thinking, "North Shields? Why on earth, Pink Tutu?" And honestly, you wouldn’t believe the journey this queen took to get here! First, I took the express train straight out of Derbyshire. Let me tell you, train journeys are the best - all that glamorous window scenery whizzing by. Plus, I got to people watch, which, as you all know, is one of my absolute favourite pastimes. 😉 I saw the most delightful chap in a tweed suit and a tweed cap, he was almost as dapper as yours truly. He even had a little dachshund wearing a tiny tweed coat – just the cutest thing!
Upon arrival at North Shields Station, I spotted a lovely, traditional black cab with a bright pink tutu hanging from the passenger door. Of course, I had to hop right in! The driver, a man named Brian with a heart of gold, even offered me a cuppa and a ginger nut. So hospitable!
I was heading to the iconic, much-loved, North Shields Fish Quay – where, my dears, the air crackles with excitement and the atmosphere buzzes with energy. It’s a sight to behold! Bustling with life and crammed full of history. You could almost smell the salty tang of the North Sea. 🐟
But what brought me to North Shields? Why, a gig at the legendary North Shields Fish Quay! I was invited to perform for the annual 'A Taste of the Quay' food festival, an event celebrating the best in local cuisine and arts! Talk about a dream come true! It felt so special to share my love of glitter, twirls, and all things fabulous with the people of this charming town. 🥰
The locals were truly amazing – all so welcoming, so full of laughter and good cheer. The energy of the crowd was infectious. Even my opening act, a quick ballet pirouette followed by a glitter-bomb explosion, left everyone in hysterics. The roar of the crowd? It was almost as exhilarating as winning a gold medal at the Olympics. 🥇
My performance itself was a whirlwind of twirling and sequins, interspersed with a little sassy banter. I was telling them about my favourite ballet performance, The Nutcracker, a classic with beautiful choreography and an incredible pink tutus. You can't have a ballet without a tutu! My outfit for the evening, by the way, was a stunning, fluffy, hot-pink tulle tutu, adorned with a scattering of silver stars. It was like the sky had descended onto my hips. I was the star of the show! ✨
As the final notes faded and the audience erupted in applause, I felt an incredible sense of fulfilment. Sharing my love of pink, ballet and joy with everyone here truly makes this journey worth every step!
Of course, I wasn’t about to let the magic end there! Later that evening, after I’d showered, dined (had a delicious smoked salmon and chips by the harbor - so good, I had seconds!), and donned my ‘day’ look – a fab pink blazer, shimmering blouse, and oh-so-chic heels – I went exploring. 👠
North Shields has so much charm, with its pretty Victorian terraces and bustling high street. I couldn’t resist browsing the quirky independent shops, finding a charming little art gallery and even trying on a few outfits (you’re never too old for a little window shopping, babes!). They even had a cute little theatre tucked away down a backstreet, complete with posters advertising 'A Midsummer Night's Dream'. The next day I was off to watch it. So good to support local, independent venues and shows.
Now, let's talk about the ballet class! Oh darling, I simply HAD to check out the local ballet school while I was here. It's a little haven of elegance and grace. My day was practically made when I saw a little girl with the cutest, tiniest, pinkest tutu you ever did see. It made my heart melt, she looked like she was born to twirl. 💖
After a bit of gentle stretching and barre work (you never know when a fancy footwork routine might come in handy), I was all set for the lesson. I did have to do a bit of shimmying to get my hips warmed up - not really ideal for ballet! But the instructor was lovely - and very amused. She told me how North Shields is a great place for dance - so much talent on display here!
After my dance-tastic time, I headed for the local vintage tea room for a delightful spot of afternoon tea. Imagine! Tiny sandwiches, delicious cakes, and a pot of steaming hot tea - all served on pretty china with pink flowers. Absolutely perfect for this Pink Tutu queen! 👑
And, before you ask, no, my tea wasn't pink, much as I would have loved to dye it a lovely shade of my favourite hue. Maybe next time! 😉
As the sun began its descent, painting the sky with shades of lavender and orange, I knew it was time for my next adventure. I packed my tutu, glitter, and high heels (what a stylish combination, I know!), and hopped on a local bus, the wind ruffling my perfectly-styled pink curls. My next stop: the Tyne Valley.
But you’ll have to wait for my next post to hear all about that. Just trust me, you won’t want to miss it! It’s going to be pink-tastic. 😉
Catch you on the flip side!
Love,
Pink Tutu Sparkles. 💖
www.pink-tutu.com
