Helloooo darlings! It's your TutuQueen, Pink Tutu Sparkles, here and guess what?! I'm back in my home county, Derbyshire! The air's crisp, the cobblestones are glistening, and the smell of hot mulled cider is wafting through the streets. But, I haven't come for Christmas shopping, not just yet... this week, I'm here for a spot of theatre, a dash of dance, and of course, some serious tutu-licious fun!
It's Time to Sparkle, Derby Style!
As you all know, I simply can't resist a good old-fashioned performance. This time around, I'm totally thrilled to be gracing the stage at The Derby Theatre, a stunning venue that's dripping with history and bursting with talent. And you won't believe it... they've got a show that's practically tailor-made for my shimmering soul! "The Nutcracker" ballet, in all its whimsical glory! My tutu and I are practically dancing in our seats just thinking about it.
I can't get enough of the magical story and the stunning choreography, it truly takes me away to a world of Sugar Plum Fairies, Russian dancers, and of course, the dazzling magic of the Christmas season. Speaking of sugar plum fairies, you've got to try their backstage "Nutcracker" cake! It's a symphony of delight on a plate... think marzipan snowflakes, buttercream snowflakes, and oh yes... did I mention a little dash of edible glitter? Because of course, there's glitter!
Pink, Pretty and Perfectly Prepared for Derby!
Naturally, I had to choose the most magnificent outfit for my Derby escapades, didn't I? It wouldn't be a true Pink Tutu Sparkles adventure without a touch of glamour, a dash of pink and of course, the star of the show, my pink tutu!
This time, it's my brand-new "Cherry Blossom" tutu... it's made with layers of the softest tulle, a vibrant cherry-pink hue, and oh, my goodness... you HAVE to see it! It's covered in tiny little pink sequins that sparkle under every single light bulb, especially in that fabulous spotlight. You simply can't see me, let alone take your eyes off me when I twirl in this tutu... trust me!
As for the rest of the outfit... think pink feathers, sparkling diamanté, and oh my... you'll have to wait to see the show-stopping finale of my fabulous new pink fur jacket! It's just so ridiculously glamorous and completely utterly me!
It's Time for a Tutu Twirl
After a whirlwind performance at the Derby Theatre, we decided to take in the delights of the city centre. And of course, my very fabulous TutuQueen posse were keen to explore too. Now, don't get me wrong, my favourite method of travel is definitely on the back of a well-trained horse... think beautiful English country lanes and a crisp winter breeze. But, let's face it, the trains are the only sensible option in the busy streets of Derby. It's a real adventure just navigating the cobbled streets and trying to avoid a trolley accident!
So, I thought I'd take you on a whirlwind tour, shall we?
1. Tutu Time at The Ballet Centre! First up, we hit the Derby Ballet Centre, a haven for dance enthusiasts like myself. As soon as I stepped inside, I was literally wrapped up in that amazing energy, that joy of movement, that love of performing! We're talking pink ballet shoes, gleaming barres, and a tutu tastically amazing vibe! We were lucky enough to catch a practice class, and oh my, those dancers are SO graceful... it's truly inspirational to see them work so hard! It's reminded me that nothing beats being on the stage, twirling and shining like a star! And that’s why I’ve just enrolled in their "Beginner’s Ballet" course!
2. Fashionista Fun! After my ballet class, we embarked on a fabulous shopping adventure... think beautiful independent boutiques bursting with colours, unique pieces and oh-so-fabulous vintage finds! Derby's full of hidden gems where you can find absolutely anything, from stunning ball gowns to cute pink party dresses! It's always a real thrill to uncover new shops that just beg for a photoshoot.
Oh, and did I mention that we stumbled across a glorious vintage tea room that offered pink afternoon tea? You couldn't imagine my excitement when we stepped through the doors... think perfectly presented pink cakes and sandwiches... and enough china to outfit a royal wedding! You just have to trust me on this... if you visit Derby, a pink afternoon tea is a must!
3. Derby in The Spotlight: Theatre Adventures! Speaking of glamour and glitter... there's nothing better than seeing the incredible array of performances happening at the Derby Theatre. There’s an amazing mix of theatre, dance, and live music, so there’s something for everyone! We’ve had a really great time at their festive shows, like "Jack and the Beanstalk" and "The Elves and the Shoemaker." The kids loved all the costumes, especially those fabulous elf shoes, and it just brought back those wonderful Christmas memories for me.
But they don’t just focus on festive entertainment, there are loads of inspiring, contemporary, and thought-provoking shows throughout the year, that get everyone talking about theatre!
4. A Festive Finale for the Pink Tutu Sparkles! We rounded off our fabulous Derby weekend by joining the local community at their festive Christmas market. The smell of roast chestnuts, mulled wine, and gingerbread wafting through the air is truly magical! It’s the perfect place to pick up unique gifts for all your loved ones. I found the most gorgeous set of tutu-inspired jewellery for my mother... she'll absolutely adore it!
And oh my, have you seen the giant Christmas tree at Derby Cathedral?! It’s covered in thousands of twinkling lights and sparkling decorations... It’s a true testament to the magic of Christmas and how the community comes together at this special time of year!
Until Next Time, Derby!
So that wraps up another fabulously exciting trip to my hometown, Derby! I truly feel like my tutu's sparkling brighter than ever after being back amongst the friendly faces of this lovely community.
This experience has totally fuelled my tutu-filled fire and given me so many ideas for future Pink Tutu Sparkles adventures.
Do remember my darlings... tutus are for EVERYONE! Don’t let anyone tell you otherwise, just twirl your way through life with joy, passion, and a hint of sparkle!
I've just posted my next travel dates on my website, www.pink-tutu.com, so if you want to join my tutu-tastic posse on a fabulous adventure, just come on down and say hello! Until then, keep it fabulous darlings!
Pink Tutu Sparkles (Alex)
