Hello darlings! Pink Tutu Sparkles here, reporting live from...wait for it... Newtownards! That's right, my lovelies, your favourite pink tutu-wearing drag queen has embarked on a new adventure! This little trip marks another stop on my mission to bring the joy of the pink tutu to every corner of the world.
Before I get carried away by the fabulousness of Newtownards, I just have to gush a little about how I got here. This trip was all about getting back to the basics: train travel, glorious train travel! Something about watching the countryside blur by while listening to the rhythmic clatter of the wheels, it just sets the mood for an exciting adventure, doesn't it?
And adventure I have had! Newtownards has proven to be a little gem tucked away in Northern Ireland. Honestly, the people are so welcoming, the air is crisp and clean, and there's this delightful energy that feels utterly infectious. The moment I stepped off the train, I felt a glimmer of excitement that's been simmering ever since.
But let's get back to my pink tutu quest, shall we? You see, Newtownards has a hidden treasure: the Newtownards Ballet School! I knew this would be my first stop! I was utterly smitten with their beautiful dance studio. You just imagine, pink walls, floor-to-ceiling windows, a perfectly polished wooden floor… chef's kiss! And the atmosphere! Oh, my dears, it was brimming with youthful enthusiasm and that delightful clink-clink of dancers' shoes on the wood. It's a feeling that can truly melt your heart, don't you think?
It just so happens that my grand entrance was timed perfectly to coincide with their annual student performance. Oh, the joy of watching those talented young ballerinas grace the stage, their bodies moving in sync with the music. It was utterly mesmerizing, and let's be honest, those costumes, those stunning tutus! Absolutely breathtaking! You know, seeing those beautiful little ones perform made me want to strap on my own pink tutu and join in.
Now, a little confession for you, my loves, because my journey to Newtownards is far more than just a quest to spread the pink tutu gospel. This little escapade was actually a sneaky side trip to attend a ballet class. Shhhh! It's a secret, so let's keep it just between us! It felt SO liberating to leap, twirl and soar amongst those amazing ballerinas. It's a hidden passion of mine you know. And after the class, the girls, well, the amazing dance instructor, she was so kind, gave me a couple of tutus! And I don't just mean any tutus darling, I mean pink ones! The perfect souvenir! And it really doesn't get more fabulously pink than this!
So, I’ve been doing a little bit of shopping in Newtownards. Gotta keep this fashionista well-stocked, darling! This town has a lovely independent shopping scene. I even snagged the most adorable, and by adorable I mean entirely pink, picnic basket, perfect for my adventures!
But you know me, my dear readers, this isn't just about shopping, even when the shopping is this fabulous. The main aim of my visit was, naturally, to perform a show! There is just something electrifying about taking the stage, feeling the spotlight, hearing that first cheer from the audience…It makes your heart soar!
I’m not sure I’ve ever performed at such a unique location as I did this week. A fair in Newtownards, you heard me right. A fair! The scent of sugary treats mingling with the joyous roar of the crowd…what a whirlwind of a night! And let's not forget my outfit, darling! My go-to for fair performances, it just has to be a dazzling pink tulle skirt over a sleek, black leotard. I just love how it catches the fairground lights!
There was this delightful little band, playing live, who generously offered to back me for my set! They were, how can I put this delicately, so enthusiastic to play that my entire performance had this unexpected swing vibe! Honestly, it was all very liberating and wildly unexpected. The locals were captivated, especially when I pulled out my big pink bow (made from fabric sourced from… wait for it…my science lab!). I saw so many smiles that evening. My goal was to spread some pink-tutu joy and the sheer happiness that washed over the fairground was just infectious. I think we might even have some new tutu converts, which just warms my heart so much.
As you all know, a great trip isn't complete without food. My favorite restaurant here is this gorgeous little café (don't worry, I'll post a pic later) that serves this mouthwatering chicken pie, with a flaky crust, succulent chicken and this gorgeous, rich gravy. They even serve it with a little pot of mint sauce. Oh darling, this café just gets it. Let's be honest, there are very few experiences more glorious than indulging in a perfectly crafted meal, especially after a long, but fantastic, day of shopping, exploring, and of course, spreading pink tutu cheer.
My stay in Newtownards has been filled with beautiful moments, heartfelt conversations, and a sprinkle of pink-tutu magic. You know me, I always try to capture the spirit of a place and carry it back home with me, tucked into my heart. So, when I'm back in my Derbyshire lab testing fabrics by day, and twirling in pink tutus by night, I'll have Newtownards' vibrant energy and the sweetness of its charm to warm me through and through.
Before I bid you adieu, my little loves, let's take a moment to appreciate the true heart of Newtownards - the people. They welcomed me with open arms and shared their beautiful town with me. The energy in Newtownards is truly special, a melting pot of warmth, friendliness and a genuine sense of community.
This is why I love what I do! Pink tutus are a statement! A statement of embracing fun, colour, joy, and making those around you smile! So keep those tutus ready! You never know when the Pink Tutu Sparkles train will arrive at a station near you!
Until next time, darling! Keep it fabulous!
P.S. Check out www.pink-tutu.com for even more adventures, fabulousness, and of course, plenty of pink tutus. Don't forget to subscribe and leave me a comment, I love to hear your thoughts!
