Tutu Drag Queen

#TutuQueen on 2009-07-16 stars in Lancaster

Lancaster, darling! (Blog post #3485)

Hello, darlings! It's your favourite pink-tutu-wearing queen, Pink Tutu Sparkles, here, bringing you another fabulous update from the road! Today, I'm absolutely bursting with excitement to share my adventures from Lancaster, a truly charming little town brimming with history and charm. Honestly, this place is absolutely oozing with delightful Victorian architecture - imagine all the petticoats that must have flounced through these streets back in the day!

As you all know, I'm a bit obsessed with trains, so it was no surprise that I chose this magical method of transport to reach Lancaster. I love the romance and glamour of train travel, it just adds a touch of whimsy to any journey, don't you think? Plus, let's face it, a little train carriage is the perfect opportunity to bust out your most fabulous pink tutu. No, darling, not just any pink tutu. I went all out today - a full-skirted, voluminous masterpiece of fluffy tulle that would make a swan envious. Oh, and my favourite, bright pink, feather boa, of course. After all, when you’re in a world of history, a little bit of glitter goes a long way, wouldn’t you agree?

Now, Lancaster is one of those places that truly feels like stepping into a time capsule, a veritable treasure chest of stories whispered from the past. From the majestic Lancaster Castle, with its imposing stone walls and haunting history, to the charming streets that weave through the heart of the city, there's so much to explore! It just calls out for a little adventure, don't you think?

My first port of call was the grand Lancaster Castle. Oh my! It felt like walking through a chapter from one of those old-fashioned historical novels! As I wandered through its courtyards, my imagination soared, envisioning grand ballrooms with waltzing couples dressed in their finest attire. The building, with its massive stone walls, spoke of secrets and stories whispered throughout the centuries. The guards, all dressed in their grand red and black uniforms, even stood at attention and gave me a little curtsey! Don't worry, I curtsied back, it was very dignified - even if it involved some careful tiptoeing in my rather voluminous tutu!

Of course, I wouldn’t dream of visiting Lancaster without enjoying a bit of local flavour. I simply had to try a "Lancashire hotpot"! I love the traditional, home-cooked goodness that comes from classic dishes, and this hotpot was no exception! So many rich and flavourful ingredients, and everything so perfectly cooked – absolutely scrumptious!

As you know, I simply adore a good ballet performance, and what a treat awaited me at the Dukes Theatre, darling! A beautifully presented rendition of "The Nutcracker", with all the magic and charm you could ever desire! It truly took me back to my childhood, dreaming of being a graceful ballerina myself. Speaking of ballet, you'd be shocked to learn I was once a bit of a lab rat! Don't let that silly scientific name scare you; it was all part of a glorious plan, darling! When I was a budding young scientist studying for my degree in textiles at university, I got caught up with the ballet club! Imagine the hilarity, darling, me in a lab coat by day and a tutu by night! It was at a university charity fashion show where my tutu journey really took flight, and I knew I was destined to spread the pink-tutu gospel far and wide. But that’s another story, my darlings! Back to Lancaster!

The theatre had the most beautiful, ornate interiors. The auditorium, where the magic happened, felt so grand and welcoming. And the costumes! Sparkling like jewels under the stage lights! It all reminded me just how much I love performance, darling, how I love to take those bright spotlights and show everyone that tutus really are the ultimate statement of individuality, and how they truly can elevate any occasion!

And wouldn't you know it, after the show, I had a fantastic conversation with the cast and crew, discussing everything from the intricacies of tutu construction to the transformative power of performance. You'd be amazed how many people get really into a conversation about tutus once you start talking about it! It’s always a delightful reminder that beneath all the sequins and feather boas, we're all just fellow travellers in this dazzling world of performance, expressing ourselves and celebrating the magic of our shared humanity, even if in pink!

Speaking of sequins and boas, my darling, let’s not forget about my other passion: fashion! Lancaster's Market Square had to be visited! It was a true shopper’s paradise. It just oozed character, charm, and history. It reminded me of those lovely Victorian illustrations with all those gorgeous fabrics and textures in all the little boutiques. Oh, the delights! Imagine a vintage hat, perfectly matched to a floral patterned, ruffled dress and a pink tutu. Oh darling, just imagining it all, it almost feels like a fever dream of elegance!

After my lovely wanderings through the shops, the final stop on my day was a delightful visit to Williamson Park. I confess, darling, I have a penchant for all things nature! It’s not so much that I like being surrounded by green things, it's that the park gives me the best setting for some truly inspirational, dreamy photos. This park was truly a spectacle - an ode to beautiful landscaping with its meandering pathways, the cascading waterfalls, and all the delightful flower beds. Every corner was a different photographic opportunity. My Tutu and I definitely took advantage of that! Imagine a ballerina pose in a giant, blooming rose garden. My dearest darling, don’t be shocked if you’re getting major floral, romantic inspiration from me from now on!

Speaking of photos, my darlings, remember you can check out all my fabulous pictures from my adventures on my social media channels and website. Just search for "Pink Tutu Sparkles" on Twitter, Instagram, or, of course, on my website - www.pink-tutu.com! You can even see pictures of my delightful, and very pink, train journey there too! I love to hear from you darlings! You’re why I post, so let me know what you think of my Lancaster escapade, especially the pictures! I’ve always been a big fan of showing rather than just telling.

Lancaster, darling, you truly stole my heart with your history, your architecture, and your enchanting charm. And, of course, all the delights of your vintage boutiques and that glorious rose garden. I have no doubt I’ll be back to you soon! But until next time, keep sparkling!

P.S. If you haven't already, don't forget to put on your most magnificent pink tutu today! Because you, my darling, are a dazzling, spectacular masterpiece, and the world is just waiting to be brightened with your unique brand of fabulous. Keep shining, and keep those tutus twirling! 💖

#TutuQueen on 2009-07-16 stars in Lancaster