Hello my gorgeous darlings! It's your TutuQueen, Pink Tutu Sparkles, and today's adventure takes us to the lovely town of Walsall! Honestly, I think this may just be the cutest little town ever! And not just because my new sparkly pink sequin top really popped in the local flower market, though of course, that's a bonus. 💅
Remember last week when I was discussing the perfect pink tutu to go with the outfit I'd picked for my major performance at the Royal Opera House? Well, after a ton of online window shopping and a frankly epic shopping spree in Harrods, I knew I needed a little break. I needed to get back to my roots. Where else for a gal like me than the stunning train journey from Derby to Walsall! A classic, beautiful, luxurious railway journey! I do adore a vintage train, but there's nothing quite like the elegance of a vintage-style, comfy compartment that's perfect for writing in my travel journal, sketching my ideas for new tutus, and just letting my thoughts flow. And if you're looking for inspiration? Well, look no further than your friendly, pink-loving, TutuQueen, darling!
And speaking of inspiration, Walsall truly is the perfect place for that. After settling into the absolutely lovely olde-worlde hotel, I treated myself to the most delicious afternoon tea at one of Walsall's little independent cafes. Did I mention how much I adore exploring independent boutiques, coffee shops and cafes? It's my favourite thing in the world, honestly. Discovering all those hidden gems, you know?
Anyway, where was I? So, as I sat and enjoyed my afternoon tea (a real treat, I must say!) the ideas started swirling. Not just tutu-based ideas - but inspiration for a new ballet performance, which was really quite a nice change! Who knew that an afternoon tea with scones and finger sandwiches could inspire someone like me?! Well, let's just say that inspiration comes in all shapes and sizes. 😊
That evening I found myself at the absolutely beautiful Walsall Hippodrome. A real hidden gem! Did you know, it was opened back in 1899! Can you believe that? Walsall Hippodrome, it's truly a sight to behold. Think vintage, grand, all the things a true drag queen loves. And as luck would have it, it just happened to be putting on the most stunning musical - an absolute must-see for everyone, darling! And as if that wasn't enough, it was all done in the most gorgeous costumes - complete with sparkling, flamboyant, flowing skirts and tutus. I literally couldn't have dreamed up a more perfect setting for an evening!
Later, after the show, we headed to The Old Joint Stock, a wonderful local pub just outside the theatre, and, of course, there was just the best selection of wines. If you find yourself in Walsall, it's absolutely a must-visit location! Just remember - always in moderation! (But maybe that doesn't apply to tutus.) The laughter and chatter went on well into the evening - just as the good times should.
Today's adventures started with a wonderful ballet lesson at the fantastic Walsall School of Dance - and how absolutely wonderful it was! Just me, in a perfect, sparkling pink tutu, of course, and some incredibly talented students learning some beautiful new dance routines! I'm pretty sure that they thought my tutu-sparkles made the session more exciting, but hey, I just had to do what I do! And they were definitely the best ballet students in the world - I mean, honestly, have you ever seen such talent?! You can see how the world of ballet can be incredibly beautiful and emotional, and in Walsall, it felt very personal!
After class, we had to have a splendid picnic lunch in the most stunning green park. Just look at all those photos I'm sharing, darling! Walsall is a true haven for ballet and music - you wouldn't believe the wonderful street performances. There are always so many wonderful and creative artists and performers, all bringing a unique bit of glamour and glitter to life in Walsall! It's amazing how inspiring people can be! Just by seeing these fabulous talented folks, I'm filled with the desire to get back to performing. Walsall truly is a magical town!
And I mean, my journey in Walsall would be completely incomplete without going horse-riding. I'm sure I mentioned how much I adore a classic ride! This beautiful Shire horse and me - we're definitely the most glamorous pair on the streets! Well, what else could a true TutuQueen expect! There's just something about riding on horseback in this lovely weather, it feels completely divine.
Now, I must dash because my fabulous friends from Walsall are picking me up to go out! I think this sparkly new top is really going to add to the fun of the night! Just don't tell Alex, my real-life alter ego!
So that was it! A weekend in Walsall! I really hope that my blog has inspired you to do your own explorations of Walsall, my loves! Maybe it’s just what you need. And remember, it’s the tutus!
It’s a bright and sparkly, happy-pink kind of day! Have a wonderful week, darlings, I can't wait to see you on my blog next week!
Love,
Pink Tutu Sparkles 💖✨
www.pink-tutu.com
