Tutu Drag Queen

#TutuQueen on 2010-06-12 stars in Rainham

Rainham Sparkle: A Pink Tutu Pilgrimage (Blog Post #3816)

Oh, darlings! It’s Pink Tutu Sparkles here, back from another glorious adventure, this time in the lovely town of Rainham. You know me, I simply cannot resist a good travel opportunity, especially when it’s laced with a healthy dose of pink tutu sparkle! This trip was particularly special as I got to experience not just a dazzling performance opportunity, but also delve into the history of Rainham’s captivating past – talk about a cultural cocktail, right?

As always, my trusty companion – my travel companion – is, of course, a beautifully pink tutu. It’s been carefully chosen for the occasion – this time it's a confection of feather boa ruffles and delicate lace, perfect for dancing and delighting! You wouldn’t believe the number of folks I’ve encouraged to join the tutu revolution (let's just say it’s reached a near-epidemic proportions – I wouldn't have it any other way!) and each one is more captivating than the last.

Now, let's rewind a bit, shall we? My journey to Rainham began with a romantic whiff of railway steam and the clink of wheels on tracks – that’s right, I opted for a train journey! (If you’re looking for a scenic ride and an excuse to slip into my signature pink hat and polka dot tights, a train journey’s definitely the way to go, darlings.) It’s such a peaceful way to travel. You just sit back, sip your tea, watch the world blur past, and let your imagination run wild – I’m pretty sure I saw a pink-tuted swan floating in the river by the bridge outside of Chesterfield on my way to Rainham (I swear! I have the most magnificent imagination.)

Speaking of imaginations, dear readers, I had the most splendid opportunity to work at a vintage fair. (Who can say no to vintage wares and vintage tu-tu lovers?) It’s like a grand feast for the eyes – beautiful things from decades past, whispering stories of times gone by. But darling, I wasn't there just to admire; I was there to dazzle, sparkle, and spread the gospel of pink-tutu-wearing joy, naturally!

I must admit, Rainham holds a special place in my heart – you see, this town holds a rather magical charm – and so many tucked-away pockets of historical delight – just like my little corner of the Derbyshire Dales where I call home. My adventure began with a walk along Rainham’s cobbled streets, past quaint boutiques, cozy tearooms and even a few dusty antiques shops with the scent of vintage perfume lingering in the air, where I even managed to snag a few vintage tutu decorations – talk about serendipity! The architecture too is a delightful symphony of timeworn beauty. I mean, the Victorian buildings – and the crumbling Roman ruins nestled alongside…it was simply a dream! It's not often I get a glimpse into Roman life – well, actually, I did do a bit of extra research because you know me, I like to keep things interesting. Apparently, the town used to be called *Regen * - sounds so beautiful doesn’t it!

Now, no visit to Rainham would be complete without a jaunt to the Rainham Hall, a sprawling historic estate that was once home to the wealthy and noble. Just try to imagine it, the cobbled drive, manicured gardens – and even a deer park - simply spectacular. And, of course, I made a point of posing for a photo in my tutu in front of the entrance. Oh, don’t even get me started about the fabulous grounds. It’s easy to imagine a whimsical ballet playing out against the backdrop of this history, wouldn’t it be fantastic, darling? (That gave me another great idea… perhaps I can plan an outdoor pink-tutu-themed ballet performance – think dancing through history, in an abundance of pink! Just you wait!).

You'll probably be tired of me harping on about pink tutus, but trust me when I say that even this historic house is infused with its own unique dose of sparkle – if you look closely enough. I was just wandering through the hall, enjoying the opulence and grandeur, when my gaze landed on a beautiful rose in full bloom – it was such a shade of pale pink!

But enough about Rainham’s historical highlights – I’m a pink-tutu-wearing sparkling drag queen! I have to tell you all about my performance at the local club, darling – oh you should have been there. It was packed – standing room only – which really shows how much Rainham adores a touch of pink. I had to work my way through a sea of tutus! My act was an ode to Rainham itself – I conjured the historical atmosphere, the charming architecture, and the unmistakably sparkly spirit of its residents – of course I sprinkled it with my own signature flair, and of course, I was clad in a sensational pink-tutu with dazzling sequins! It’s safe to say I had the place swarming with a pink fever!

One particularly magical moment occurred after the show. A young girl (she looked to be no older than ten) shyly approached me. Now, let's face it, not many little girls want to chat to a pink-tuted queen. I think she must have been so intrigued by the dazzling costumes, or maybe it was my infectious giggle - or possibly my signature pink-glitter eyeshadow. Who knows, really?

“Are you a fairy?” she whispered in awe. She held a miniature tutu that I swear must have been shimmering with my brand of magic! I gave her a warm smile ( and perhaps a cheeky twirl!) “I'm more than just a fairy, dear,” I answered, winking playfully. “I'm Pink Tutu Sparkles, and I'm on a mission to make everyone in the world love the beauty and the magic of tutus.”

From that day forward, darling, Rainham had my heart – and maybe a touch of my signature sparkle too! And yes, I left that little girl with a beautiful pink-tutu pin – with a shiny little sparkly heart!

Now, I know you're eager to know my next adventure – but that would be spoiling the fun! You can join me on my journey – follow me on my blog here, or check me out on www.pink-tutu.com. And you know, if you're reading this from Rainham, drop me a line, I would love to know what you think! As for now, darlings – I’m off on another tutu-rific adventure – one where pink sparkles are always on my mind, and always on my feet! Until then!

#TutuQueen on 2010-06-12 stars in Rainham