Helloooo my darlings! It's your favourite pink-loving, tutu-wearing, travel-obsessed drag queen, Pink Tutu Sparkles, back with another fabulous adventure! And oh my gosh, this one is a real corker. Today, we're venturing north, to the lovely town of Consett, a place I'd only ever heard of in whispered ballet-lover folklore... but let me tell you, it lived up to the hype and then some!
This journey started, as so many of my trips do, with a fervent desire to spread the joy of pink tutus. It’s a simple dream, really – to make the world a more sparkly, joyful place, one tutu at a time. And the Consett area, with its industrial history and strong community spirit, just felt like the perfect place to sprinkle a bit of that TutuQueen magic.
The train journey itself was an absolute dream! My fellow passengers were an eclectic mix of folk, from a very posh couple on their way to a weekend at a stately home to a gaggle of lads headed to a footy match. Naturally, I arrived looking absolutely divine in my new pink feathered boa and my signature pink tutu – I wouldn't have it any other way! I must say, it got quite a lot of stares, a few giggles, and a surprising amount of thumbs up!
Reaching Consett, the excitement really kicked in. It's such a different vibe compared to Derbyshire, my home town, with its rolling hills and traditional charm. Consett, though, felt energetic and vibrant – almost industrial chic. I had planned a whole afternoon of sightseeing, of course, but my number one goal was to track down the legendary Consett Ballet School. You know me, I just can't resist a good ballet class, even when I’m on tour!
Oh, but before I get to that… The food. Consett, you have no idea how delighted I was with your local culinary scene. The chip shop was a treasure trove of cheesy, crispy goodness, and I absolutely fell in love with the bakery's delicious pasties, all piping hot and smelling divine. My inner child was definitely appeased!
The Consett Ballet School, tucked away on a quaint side street, was just what I’d hoped for. I love finding these hidden gems of dance talent in the most unexpected places, and this one did not disappoint. I strolled in, my pink tutu swirling about me, feeling like I'd stepped right onto the set of a ballet movie. They welcomed me with open arms (and a cheeky, “Well, you do stand out!” which is always a compliment in my book).
Of course, I just had to participate, didn’t I? Joining a class full of budding ballerinas, all dressed in their crisp leotards and flowing tutus, was a delight. I definitely felt like I was leading them through a whirlwind of tutu-twirling fun! You should have seen the look on their faces when I joined them in a grand jeté... pure joy, my darlings! Pure joy!
It's these moments, folks, the ones where I'm surrounded by people who share my love for all things sparkly and twirly, that really make it all worthwhile. It’s not about being perfect, or having the most perfect technique - it's about expressing yourself, being bold and courageous, and above all, having a bit of fun! And that's precisely what the students at Consett Ballet School embody.
The afternoon in Consett ended with a visit to a lovely little coffee shop, tucked away in a cosy corner of town. As I sipped my latte (pink, naturally!) and chatted with the locals, I realised something: It’s the simple interactions, the everyday moments of kindness and connection, that make a place truly special. Consett, with its friendly faces and welcoming atmosphere, definitely won my heart.
Now, before I sign off, a few words of wisdom from your TutuQueen: Never be afraid to embrace the unusual, the vibrant, the truly sparkly in your life. Step out of your comfort zone, experiment with colour and texture, and never ever be afraid to wear a tutu - no matter how many eyebrows are raised. Because you know what? It's moments like these, moments of sheer joyful self-expression, that truly make life extraordinary.
And my darling readers, always remember: Every day is a chance to wear your own pink tutu! Go forth, embrace your inner sparkle, and be ready for whatever adventures the world has to offer.
Until next time, my lovely readers!
Lots of love,
Your TutuQueen
Pink Tutu Sparkles 💖
