#TutuQueen Post #4244
Darling, get your glitter ready! It’s your fabulously fabulous Pink Tutu Sparkles, your resident tutu-wearing travel queen, checking in from the wonderful world of… Barking! That’s right, I’m not just here to perform – I’m here to explore, to soak in the culture, and to, of course, spread the glorious gospel of pink tutus!
Now, I know what you’re thinking. Barking, darling? East End? Not exactly the image that comes to mind when you imagine pink tulle, sequins and fancy footwork, is it? But let me tell you, dear readers, the magic of tutus is truly universal, and it’s going to take over this town!
First things first, my journey began with a scenic train ride. Who needs fancy cars, when you have the thrill of chugging through the countryside with the wind in your hair (and, admittedly, a little pink fluff escaping my tulle)? And trust me, my outfit definitely caused a few stares and even some smiles on the platform. Someone actually said “Right then, a princess!” and I’ll admit, it took a minute for the blush to subside before I gave them a gracious "Ooh you!" wink.
Reaching Barking station felt like stepping back in time. Quaint, quirky, and charmingly gritty - just like the heart of London. This isn’t some glittering West End theatre district, it’s a neighbourhood with stories woven into every cobblestone, and my drag queen radar was buzzing!
Before even setting up my glittering crown on a pillow at the local hotel (it's surprisingly posh for this part of town), I just had to take a wander through the bustling market. Now, my darlings, don't be fooled, even the market was dripping with personality! This isn’t your regular overpriced artisan bread and fancy cheeses scene. No, here we have real local vendors, colourful characters, and bargains galore – all with a truly East End vibe. A real joy for a girl who grew up with a fondness for all things vintage and authentic!
After an afternoon spent sipping tea at a quaint little café (think classic floral wallpaper and a generous dollop of clotted cream), it was time to let the sparkly mayhem begin! I’d secured a gig at a local pub - don't be fooled, it's full of history and more charming than your average boozer! I donned my dazzling pink tutu - oh, my dear, I knew exactly what to pick for this one! We're talking layers of chiffon, a touch of silver sparkle and enough volume to bring the house down!
The crowd was lively, but a little more...unsure. Some furrowed their brows, some even muttered “well this is a surprise!”, but my mission, as always, was to conquer hearts one pink pirouette at a time. And let me tell you, I did! The audience soon warmed to my routine, a mix of Broadway showstopper, contemporary ballet, and a dash of sassy London sass! My 'Tutu Tales' performance weaves together music and story, showcasing my life as a scientist, a dancer, a queen! It was magical, truly! I had the entire pub stomping and clapping along by the end, even a few brave souls taking to the dancefloor with me.
By the time I'd signed autographs and chatted with a few regulars, my energy levels were seriously depleted. But no matter! You know me, a quick snack and I’m back in full swing! Back at the hotel, a hot bath and a cheeky face mask later (hello, Pink Lemonade scented beauty mask!) and it was time to take the fabulous to another level. It was time to Pink Tutu it up.
You see, darling, one of the key things I always look for in my travel destinations is a bit of Pink Tutu potential. Can I take a sparkly snap that'll be Instagram-worthy? Will there be shops filled with fabulous tulle and fabulous outfits? Are there other fabulous queens to connect with? And in this case, Barking was a true triumph!
As soon as I spotted this lovely little vintage clothing shop, the doors practically flew open with the force of my excitement. One rummage through the racks and I had found my latest vintage-chic addition: a dazzling sequined top that screamed ‘glamour’ and a perfectly mismatched silk scarf that I’m absolutely obsessed with! Don't worry, darling, my blog will have all the outfit details, of course!
After a fantastically fabulous dinner at the local Italian restaurant (try the spaghetti alla carbonara, a delicious little dream), my journey concluded with a delightful pink-tutu fuelled stroll by the waterside. As the moon bathed the scene in soft moonlight, I indulged in some introspective thoughts on my day, my mission, and my beloved tutus!
One thing is certain, my journey to Barking was one of genuine discovery, reminding me once again that the joy of Pink Tutudom knows no bounds, not even the East End. So next time you think you need a reason to step outside your comfort zone and spread a little fabulous, just remember: Pink Tutu Sparkles went to Barking, and lived to tell the tale!
Stay fabulous, stay sparkly, and stay tuned for more Tutu Travels coming to a town near you, darling!
Love, Pink Tutu Sparkles xx
www.pink-tutu.com
