Hello darlings, it's your favourite pink-tutu-loving drag queen, Pink Tutu Sparkles, back with another fabulous travel post! This week, I've swapped the sequins for a slightly more sensible outfit (although pink, naturally!), as I've traded my sparkly heels for a pair of comfy riding boots - I'm heading to the charming town of Chatham, and I'm taking a journey through time!
As you all know, I adore trains. There's just something magical about gliding through the countryside, watching the world pass by as the rhythmic clickety-clack of the tracks carries you away. It’s a far cry from the flashing lights of the stage, but this old-fashioned mode of travel adds a touch of romance and charm to any adventure.
Speaking of romance, the town of Chatham itself exudes a certain quaint charm. It's brimming with historical charm, tucked away in the county of Kent, and is a haven for the discerning, fashionable lady like myself. My first stop is the iconic Rochester Castle - a real architectural wonder! Its stone walls whisper stories of ancient times, and its imposing presence makes you feel like a princess stepping out of a fairytale. (Don't worry, I wore my trusty pink tutu, naturally, but it did require a slight adjustment to keep it safe around all that medieval history!)
My mission? To bring a little bit of Tutu magic to this captivating corner of England.
You might be wondering, what in the world is a Pink Tutu Queen doing in a place so steeped in history? Well, darlings, allow me to explain. As much as I love twirling and prancing on stage, my passions extend far beyond the glitter and the lights. My heart, like a ballerina, is light and eager to explore the world, its hidden gems, and its stories waiting to be told.
Now, before you all jump to conclusions, this isn’t a wild adventure about getting lost in ancient history - even if the thought does give me butterflies! Chatham holds a special place in my heart, because of a fascinating tale woven with the delicate threads of fabric…but more on that later!
But let’s dive into the real heart of my visit – I’m actually here for a fabulous, fabulous, and, shall we say, ‘fringe’ theatrical experience! Yes, my loves, Chatham is holding its annual ‘Chatham Fringe’ – an eclectic, alternative theatre extravaganza filled with dazzling performers of all sorts – and this time I’m in it to win it!
No, it won't be on the stage, but that wouldn't stop a Pink Tutu Sparkles now would it? My act here is a lot quieter than the usual show-stopping glitz and glamour. In this case, it’s all about fabric, the sort you'll find adorning fabulous stage costumes – think satins, sequins, and yes, you guessed it, my most beloved tutus. I’m acting as a judge for their fashion design competition – how much pressure? But it's the kind of opportunity I wouldn’t want to miss! This competition isn’t for those looking for mainstream elegance and precision. No darling, it's about pushing the boundaries, showcasing avant-garde visions – think creative collaborations, dramatic shapes, and breathtaking expressions through fabric! This is my kind of party.
It wouldn’t be Pink Tutu Sparkles in Chatham without a dose of pure theatre! So, my next stop was The Royal Victoria and Albert Theatre. The ornate architecture and charming history transported me straight to the Victorian era! My heart, like a delicate lace fabric, fluttered at the mere thought of the grand performances that must have graced these stages over the years. A true historical delight, it’s almost as glamorous as my own drag queen life! (Almost!)
It's almost unbelievable but true – even a small town like Chatham holds its own theatre school. It's an amazing institution, full of hopeful dancers, and the kind of space I just had to experience. Naturally, a trip there wouldn’t be complete without a quick impromptu dance session - because the rhythm takes hold! It's just one of those magical spaces where creativity spills out like champagne after a big celebration. Even I was tempted to step back into my youthful passion and grab a pair of ballet shoes.
I had an opportunity to catch an evening ballet performance by the school students. It was a beautifully intimate affair - nothing too fussy and perfectly crafted, just like the fabric creations that I would be judging tomorrow! Now you see how intertwined Chatham's stories have become, weaving into my love of performance and, of course, my favorite pink tutus!
Chatham is a haven for my kind – its cobbled streets, antique shops, and quaint cafes, brimming with artistic charm – and you guessed it – I’m going to need a lot more fabric. But not just for my next spectacular performance…this time it’s for my biggest challenge yet…but that's for another post darling! Until next time!
P.S. Do you fancy travelling to Chatham by horse? Perhaps the perfect steed to discover the beautiful Kentish countryside? Let me know! Remember to keep sparkling, darlings!
