Hello darlings! Your favourite pink-tutu-wearing travel queen is back, and this time, I've ventured out of my Derbyshire comfort zone to the charming town of Chingford, Essex. Oh, it's been a whirlwind, and I wouldn't have missed it for all the sequins in a fabric shop!
You know I adore travelling by train, don't you? Well, this journey was no different! It was a delightful carriage with fellow travellers, all dressed up and ready for a weekend adventure. Of course, my trusty pink travel tutu took centre stage - with a splash of emerald green ribbon this time, for a bit of unexpected pizzazz. It was a great ice-breaker with the lovely woman in the seat next to me, a budding dancer just starting ballet classes. She confessed her biggest dream was to be on stage wearing a full-skirted tutu, and I promised to gift her one - maybe in shimmering pink, or a touch of silver to accent her stage magic!
Reaching Chingford station, I was transported by the charm of this little town, and I wasn't disappointed when I reached my destination. A bustling village market filled with delights from artisan cakes to hand-made crafts! There was even a lovely little stall with adorable pink bow hair ties for my precious crown. You bet I snapped a few of those up for the girls in Derbyshire. I love to bring a little something back to those lovely ladies!
But why was I in Chingford? You'll never believe this - it's the land of a new performing art experience, Ballet Street! Who knew this sweet, small town had such big dreams? The ballet street team organised a full weekend event, incorporating workshops, demonstrations and live performances, all around the picturesque streets of the town. The whole town was abuzz with the joy of movement and artistic expression - a perfect setting for this pink-loving tutu queen!
And of course, I wasn't just an observer! Pink Tutu Sparkles always brings a sprinkle of her unique brand of sparkle. On Saturday, I took the stage for a quick "Tutu Travels" session, with a bit of sassy cha-cha and a twist of elegant ballet poses to enchant the audience. We had the children in the front row, mesmerised, waving their little pink tutu hair clips in delight, and even a few twee young boys trying out their new-found moves. It was pure, unadulterated joy!
And to top it all off, after my performance, I had the honour of being part of the Ballet Street parade, which meandered through the heart of Chingford. We all joined together to create an enchanting and elegant procession, filled with costumes, props, music and colour, and as always, my pink tutu held pride of place, waving in the breeze like a little pink dream come true.
You know what they say - it's not about the size of the stage, it's about how big your heart is, and how much you shine. I couldn't have found a better stage to sparkle this weekend!
I am leaving Chingford with a heart overflowing with gratitude, for the town, for the event, and for the chance to bring a touch of pink magic wherever I go!
I must confess, my travels are still just beginning. So much to explore, so much more to discover. But until my next journey, let your inner Tutu Queen shine brightly, and remember, life's a stage, darlings! Make it a fabulous one!
Love and sparkles,
Pink Tutu Sparkles (and Alex) 💖
P.S: I found a charming vintage book stall where I got the most amazing book for my ballet history collection. Imagine, "The History of Dance in the English Countryside: A Visual Guide to the 19th Century!" I can't wait to read it and share my findings with you. What a treasure!
P.P.S: My tutu travels never end! I've booked a carriage on a gorgeous new route with an authentic, 19th century horse drawn carriage from Chingford station to the local Royal Forest pub, for a relaxing journey through the countryside and a spot of delicious English pub food. I hear they have amazing Yorkshire pudding for Sundays! This weekend is for relaxation and exploring new adventures with a pink tutu.
