Hello darlings! 👋 It's your favourite pink tutu-wearing blogger, Pink Tutu Sparkles, back with post number 1747 for you! 🎉
You know me, I love nothing more than getting out and about, experiencing life in all its vibrant colours (especially pink!), and what better way to do that than with a journey north?
I’ve just come back from a dazzling trip to Billingham, which, as many of you will know, is known for its industrial heritage, stunning natural landscapes and, of course, its love of theatre. ✨ The moment I got that booking, I just knew I had to share the adventures with you lovely lot.
It was my first trip up North since I travelled to Darlington on that unforgettable train journey through the Yorkshire Dales last month - which you can all check out on my blog! But for this Billingham escapade, I went old school, with a journey that’s straight outta my dreams… by horse! 🐎 I couldn't resist the allure of trotting along country lanes, feeling the wind in my hair (well, under my sparkly wig) and admiring the picturesque countryside views. It was truly a fairytale experience - a pink tutu moment for the ages! 💖
Once I reached Billingham, it was time to step into my sequins and embrace the magic of this unique town. ✨ I was absolutely thrilled to be performing at the fabulous "Theatre Billingham" – a place bursting with theatrical energy! My heart practically skipped a beat when I saw their spectacular red velvet curtain - it reminded me of all the fabulous ballet performances I’ve seen over the years (like those swan lakes! I do love a good swan lake! 💕🦢) and those glamorous, glittering gowns that sweep over the stage. Oh, don’t even get me started on the costumes!
The atmosphere was electric as I entered the stage, bathed in a dazzling spotlight and my signature pink tutu glowing with pride. 💖 You see, every Pink Tutu Sparkles performance is a kaleidoscope of vibrant energy and pure joy, bringing together the magic of ballet, the beauty of fashion, and a pinch of Derbyshire charm (yes, even a queen like me has roots!). It’s not just about performing, it's about bringing people together in a dazzling spectacle of colour and happiness.
For my Billingham show, I decided to combine some classic dance moves from ballet (gotta keep those swan lake steps polished!), with my favourite pink-tastic ballet street routines (gotta keep it fresh and contemporary!) – imagine it as if the most graceful swan danced to a hip-hop beat, you get the picture! 🩰💃 And to top it off, I whipped out some of my finest sequined creations – a brand new pink tutu hand-designed by yours truly (because you just can’t get enough sparkle, darling!). And naturally, it wouldn't be a Pink Tutu Sparkles performance without a dash of interactive fun - I taught the audience my signature pink tutu twirls, with them all giggling, laughing and getting in on the fabulous fun.
It was, honestly, pure joy to perform for the fantastic audience in Billingham. You know, there's a reason why this queen's motto is "Spreading joy, one pink tutu at a time." 💖 The sheer excitement and happiness radiating from the crowd really filled me with a glow that extended far beyond my sparkly pink wig! It's moments like this that truly make it all worthwhile, being a drag artist - the connections, the laughter, the love, it's the most amazing feeling in the world!
And after my performance? Well, of course, it's only proper to explore the wonderful world of Billingham in all its glory, isn't it? After a scrumptious fish and chips supper (you simply must try the fish and chips in the north!) , I embarked on a charming walk along the River Tees, soaking in the stunning views of this beautiful industrial town (and yes, darling, I was wearing a pink tutu - it's what I do!). The peacefulness of nature contrasting with the architectural grandeur of the old buildings was something I could get used to - perhaps this is my new pink tutu haven! 💖
For a queen on a mission, that is, getting everyone in the world to wear a pink tutu (it's a life goal you know!), Billingham really is a haven. There were locals everywhere, sporting bright colours and dazzling smiles, and guess what? They were totally open to my "Pink Tutu Movement" campaign! I distributed my limited edition Pink Tutu Sparkles stickers - a little spark of magic for every lovely person I met, along with a cheeky pink feather boa to anyone who dared to dance! (A few shy people, of course, declined - but it's a mission to conquer hearts and minds!)
The town really did embrace my unique take on style – something that I’m all about, you know. It's all about breaking barriers, spreading cheer and embracing who you truly are – a little pink glitter goes a long way! 💕
And while I was there, I managed to do a little bit of vintage shopping in some of the charming independent shops! And darling, let me tell you, this place is a haven for those vintage gems, so many fabulous dresses, bags and shoes – with all those glitzy gems on them - just crying out for me to take them home! Needless to say, my pink tutu luggage was overflowing on the journey back. (Just slightly - don’t worry, my luggage can handle quite a lot! ).
Of course, no trip would be complete without a visit to the Billingham Forum, which is an iconic building, with a rich history, which made me dream about past dance halls and vintage ballet nights - just imagine all the sequins, sparkle and waltzes! And, while I was there, I found a little surprise - a hidden pink tutu costume - tucked away in an exhibition space! Could it have been a sign? I certainly think so, and you know what? It was another reminder to follow your dreams and wear a pink tutu everywhere you go, darling!
Speaking of dreams, the entire trip reminded me of all those childhood dreams of dancing in a tutu and becoming a world-famous dancer, something I never truly abandoned - just channeled in a new direction. But you know what, even though I have a busy life in a lab by day, testing the most wonderful fabrics, and in the sparkly world of drag by night, I have a feeling this pink tutu journey has just started. 💖
I’ve made new friends in Billingham - a whole bunch of new glitter fans, who know all my best routines, and even had a few private sessions teaching local dance schools some of my best routines! My pink tutu heart was bursting, and I am so proud to have left a little pink tutu magic in this wonderful corner of the world.
And now, darling, it’s time for me to plan my next fabulous trip – but, what will it be? Will it be the Cotswolds, Brighton or will it be another glorious corner of this green and pleasant land - perhaps, a little further up north? 🤔
One thing’s for sure, this Pink Tutu queen isn’t staying put – the world is waiting! And, of course, you’ll be the first to know every fabulous step, sparkle and feather along the way, so make sure you pop back to www.pink-tutu.com for my next blog post, darlings! ✨
Don’t forget to get your pink tutus ready! 😉
Love, 💖
Pink Tutu Sparkles
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