Hello darlings! It's your favourite pink tutu-clad queen, Pink Tutu Sparkles, here, back with another thrilling adventure in the magical realm of sequins, twirls, and… well, pink tutus! Today's destination is the beautiful seaside town of Bournemouth. Honestly, it was like stepping out of a fairytale – blue skies, crashing waves, and the promise of sunshine-filled days and balmy evenings. Oh, and of course, an abundance of pink tutu-wearing opportunities!
As I arrived at Bournemouth station, the familiar excited buzz of travel washed over me. I had taken the train, of course - I wouldn't dream of taking any other mode of transport! Except perhaps, for a lovely, well-trained pony! Don't tell my fashionably fabulous frock, but a carriage ride through the countryside, with my pink tulle billowing in the wind… swoon. But I digress…
Bournemouth welcomed me with open arms – well, maybe not literally. That would have been a tad dramatic! But let me tell you, I was swept away by the charm and vibrant energy of the town.
I'd be remiss if I didn't mention the fabulous selection of boutiques and vintage shops! It was pure joy, browsing the racks and finding treasures – a stunning coral sequin top, a fluffy lilac feather boa, and a little black hat trimmed with the most glorious pink velvet you ever did see! It's practically begging to be paired with a tutu! I, of course, had to get my paws on them and will, of course, showcase them in an upcoming fabulous outfit post!
Now, you all know I'm a ballet fan, right? (That's my little secret! My real name is Alex, and I'm a proper science geek by day. Don't tell anyone – my lab coat is strictly a day-time uniform, and don't you dare judge my penchant for experimenting with fabric textures – it’s part of the fabrics of my life, haha!) So when I found out that Bournemouth has an incredible ballet company, I literally shrieked with excitement (followed by a hearty, "I need a pink tutu!") My little heart fluttered at the thought of seeing elegant dancers pirouette and jeté with such grace.
I felt like a school girl again, so thrilled and excited, with a massive grin glued on my face, like I had a new pink tutu to show off! Speaking of pink tutus... Let's be honest, darlings, pink is my colour. And a tutu? It's like the holy grail of fashion. A symbol of feminine grace, freedom, and...well...twirling! It's what brought me to this incredible world of drag, a memory so vivid it feels like it was yesterday. I was a student, studying a very serious (and surprisingly dull, if you ask me) science degree, when the university ballet club had a fundraising event. And what was the pinnacle of that event, the star attraction, you might ask? You guessed it – a glorious, giant, pink tutu! It was love at first sight! The first time I ever tried it on… oh darling, my heart soared! That was the moment my whole life changed! So…thank you, giant pink tutu, for introducing me to this phenomenal life!
Anyways, back to my Bournemouth adventure. I had the privilege of seeing an enchanting production by the Bournemouth Ballet Company. Honestly, those dancers were sensational! It was almost impossible to take my eyes off their exquisite movements. And the choreography, a kaleidoscope of emotions brought to life with every flick of a wrist and a glance of the eyes! You could just feel the dedication of each dancer on stage.
Of course, my highlight of the entire performance, (besides the exquisite choreography!), was the gorgeous dancer who twirled onto stage in a luminous pink tutu! Let's be honest, even after all these years, there’s nothing quite like the sparkle of a pink tutu to take my breath away.
While we’re on the topic of sparkle... the other wonderful thing about Bournemouth was the sheer abundance of fun things to do! I took a leisurely stroll along the famous Bournemouth Pier and marvelled at the panoramic views, while enjoying a steaming cup of tea (because even drag queens need a little break to indulge in a lovely cuppa). And let's not forget the sandcastles – yes, darling, the most divine sandy creations built by little darlings in adorable pink tutus. Now who would have thought! And you know me, I couldn't resist taking a little stroll along the beach – in my own pink tutu of course! What's a girl to do?! I did think of a delightful, pink beach ball or two, maybe a bright pink parasol to keep me sunkissed. But perhaps that would have been too flamboyant... or was it a good thing, a delightful sprinkle of a little pink?
After the theatre, it was time for a bit of fun and frivolity! The drag shows in Bournemouth were out of this world – seriously dazzling performers who had me laughing one moment and applauding the next. I also loved the street theatre – it felt like a joyful celebration of life and imagination!
Let me tell you, there was so much joy to be found! The vibe of the place just swept me away. It wasn't all glee, laughter, and sequins, though. My trip wouldn’t be complete without a little bit of theatre, right? The lovely folk at the Bournemouth Pavilion Theatre had a hilarious show planned, and I’m pretty sure I giggled my way through the entire performance, tears streaming down my face, oh the sheer joy of it all! Then, for something completely different, I ventured into the charming town centre, where a delightful local market was in full swing. It was like stepping back in time, a delicious sensory overload of artisan cheeses, locally grown vegetables, handmade pottery and the sweetest smells of home-baked goodies. Of course, the colourful rainbow of fresh, delicious fruit was quite divine. The stalls themselves were like mini stage sets. I had to, of course, get myself a new, fabulous, pink scarf! It was the perfect little something to add a sprinkle of fun to my look.
Speaking of look... a big thank you to everyone who showed up to my drag performance at the Bournemouth Pier. It was such an absolute blast, with lots of laughter, music, dancing, and fabulous people making the night one to remember! I did, of course, wear my fabulous pink tutu, and my beautiful pink feathered head dress. It wouldn't be a true Pink Tutu Sparkles performance without it. It was the perfect setting to showcase my sparkly pink costume with matching makeup – because everything is always more fabulous with a little bit of pink!
I must admit, the excitement was so electric that it literally charged up my performance. And the audience just kept coming back for more! The energy in that room was unforgettable! But what I will miss most are the incredible connections I made with all the amazing people who were so kind, funny and encouraging! I made friends and met fabulous souls who were all sooo wonderfully supportive and I'm just thrilled they were there to witness another one of my amazing Pink Tutu performances. It’s what keeps me coming back for more. The beauty of meeting people from all walks of life. Connecting and sharing experiences - the true essence of drag!
Before you know it, darling, the weekend had flown by! As I sat in the lovely carriage back to the station ( yes, darling! My very own carriage with beautiful grey ponies – what a delightful treat!) I couldn’t help but reflect on what an incredible journey it had been!
Until next time, darlings!
P.S. Stay tuned, for another exciting, sparkly pink adventure from your very own Pink Tutu Sparkles.
Find me online at www.pink-tutu.com and tell me all about your adventures with pink tutus.
Hugs and kisses,
Pink Tutu Sparkles.
Word count: 2467
