#TutuQueen on 2009-11-22 stars in Birmingham

Hiya darlings! It's your favourite Pink Tutu Queen, back from another adventure! This time I've been shimmying and shaking my way through the beautiful city of Birmingham!

I simply had to come here. I'd heard the whispers, the rumours - Birmingham was bursting with theatrical energy, the kind that makes a tutu tingle! And oh my, was I right.

The journey there was an experience in itself, don't you know? My little travel buddy, Duchess - yes, the one I always talk about, a horse so majestic she should be wearing a tiara - gave me the best scenic tour! I’m such a train buff though, so it was a real treat to ride the old fashioned train in too!

But it's not about the journey, dear readers, it's about the destination. Birmingham, you're a sight to behold!

Let's be honest, when I walk into a city, my eyes automatically search for pink. And Birmingham? My sweethearts, it was like stepping into a giant candy box! Pink, pink everywhere! Buildings, street signs, even the pigeons seemed a shade paler than usual (well, maybe that last bit's a stretch, but a girl can dream!).

But what really stole my tutu-loving heart was the incredible mix of the old and the new, a true spectacle of art and fashion.

The first thing that caught my eye, the grand Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery. A stunning edifice with an air of majesty! And to my utter delight, the gift shop was just what a Pink Tutu Queen craved! I snagged myself a darling vintage-inspired hatbox with the prettiest blush pink accents. Oh, and did I mention the selection of sparkly tutus? Swooooon! A little something to add to the Pink Tutu Sparkles collection.

Then, of course, there were the stunning Victorian structures. All that architectural detail, each corner like a theatrical backdrop for my own personal ballet! And every time I found myself in the heart of the city, that gorgeous Victorian clocktower at Birmingham New Street Station just captivated me with its gothic grace.

It’s a very historical city - I mean, imagine - the Birmingham Mint, the Jewellery Quarter… and who could forget those charming canal side pubs!

Now, you know a Pink Tutu Queen has to experience the city's artistic heart. That's why I had to visit the Birmingham Hippodrome. My, oh my! Such grandeur! That shimmering red velvet, the chandeliers glistening under the lights. It's like a fairy tale!

It was my treat to myself to see the ballet. A dazzling performance that filled me with joy and a longing to get on that stage and twirl with those talented dancers. Honestly, dear readers, there's something utterly magical about watching a beautifully choreographed performance, something that just sparks your inner sparkle.

My dear, I couldn't leave Birmingham without taking a ballet class! My aching legs might not agree, but the pleasure was absolutely worth the ache. The teacher was fantastic, and her choreography was simply inspiring! And let me tell you, the dancers in that studio… such talent! I felt right at home among those vibrant and spirited souls, you see, twirling, spinning, leaping. Oh, and guess who was right there with them, wearing a very special pink tutu of course… wink, wink!

What's a shopping trip without finding a piece of the perfect pink outfit? Well, darling, I was simply overwhelmed by the variety! Birmingham had so many stylish boutiques and shops to discover! You just know I was straight to the hat shop and jewellery store! And it just wouldn't have been right to leave without at least one pink tutu. You know I’ve been wanting a long, classic tutus - but this time I settled on a glittery ombre with sparkly details that literally sparkled when the light hit it. It’s going to look amazing for my next big performance!

The best part about the trip? That evening, I finally made it to the Royal Birmingham Conservatoire to watch the talented music students at the Royal Birmingham Conservatoire playing! That beautiful venue, the grandeur, and of course - those amazing performers! Oh, how my tutu was a-twitching! The performance was phenomenal, the melodies made my heart sing and I found myself totally engrossed, taking in the beauty and skill of every performance. I could have listened to that talented musician play all night long.

Do you know, you never really know when you'll stumble across a delightful surprise, especially in a place bursting with energy like Birmingham! In a charming little café, a group of children in costumes performed a captivating song and dance routine. It was pure magic. Those kids were so excited and joyous - it just filled me with such happiness.

It wasn't just about the glitz and the glamour of the performances and the stores either! A walk around the Jewellery Quarter and I felt inspired by all the creativity around me. Every corner, every building held something amazing, each one more beautiful than the last! I was just in awe.

The evening wouldn't have been complete without a delightful meal and some fabulous theatre! Dinner at a charming local restaurant was delicious. We talked about the world, our adventures, everything - it’s the kind of experience you treasure.

I finished the night by popping in to the Birmingham Rep - wow! Such an eclectic and interesting theater space! The show was truly wonderful! The cast were captivating, the costumes were extraordinary, and the audience was simply enchanted.

And of course, I made sure to leave with my special Pink Tutu Sparkle touch - some sparkle and joy to inspire all the performers and audiences. Just a sprinkle of my unique brand of happiness - just as the queen likes it.

1. Embrace the sparkle! Birmingham is full of history, architecture, art and entertainment - explore every corner.
2. Try a delicious Brummie breakfast - Black Pudding is divine!
3. Dress up! A touch of pink in your outfit will help you find those secret, hidden gems the city has to offer.
4. Seek out the most beautiful, intricate, hidden courtyards and alleyways – Birmingham hides them away amongst its vibrant cityscape. A truly delightful treat.

And finally darlings, make sure you sprinkle some tutu-licious magic on your own journey! After all, what's life without a little pink sparkle, don't you know?

Until next time my dear friends, I’ll be back again with even more exciting travel stories. Until then, remember, keep sparkling, and wear a tutu!

Love and pink twirls, Pink Tutu Sparkles (Alex)