Blog Post Number 8597
Hello darlings! It's your favourite pink-tutu-clad queen, Pink Tutu Sparkles, bringing you another fabulous update from the whirlwind of my life!
As you all know, I live for adventure. And this week, adventure led me all the way up to Carlisle, a charming city in the heart of Cumbria. It was an epic journey, and just as thrilling as always!
Now, you might be thinking, "Cumbria? What's so exciting about Cumbria?" Well, let me tell you, dear readers, this little county has a charm that's totally irresistible. Rolling hills, breathtaking scenery, and oh, the history! And then, there's Carlisle Castle – a monument that’s truly fit for a queen.
This trip wasn't just about scenic views and historic attractions though. It was about sharing my passion for pink tutus, dancing, and good old fashioned fun with the lovely people of Carlisle. I made sure my bright pink tutu shimmered under the lights and got a warm welcome as I shimmied across the stage in a new and quirky local club. They really loved it, I even managed to encourage some members of the audience to get up and give me a whirl or two, and they even made it onto the local paper, and not for their dress sense but for their lovely enthusiasm. They gave me a really lovely reception at the club; a great applause at the end, with lots of excited chatter during and after the set.
How Did I Get to Carlisle?
Of course, no Pink Tutu Sparkles journey is complete without a dash of theatricality! I decided to ditch the boring old car and take a luxurious train ride to Cumbria. Picture this: me, rocking my most fabulous pink outfit (and yes, it was a tutu), settling into a plush carriage, sipping on some bubbly. A true pink tutu princess experience!
The journey itself was an absolute delight! The rolling hills and stunning green fields were truly a sight to behold. I felt so at peace with the world, my pink tutu flowing gracefully as the train travelled on through the beautiful Cumbrian countryside. And just look at this stunning shot I took, a lovely snap that captured the beauty of the train tracks. [INSERT PHOTO OF TRAIN TRACKS THROUGH CUMBIRIA]
From Railway Station to Ballroom – In a Pink Tutu, of Course!
Now, when I say my time in Carlisle was “tutu-tastic," I mean it! One of the highlights was my visit to Carlisle's lovely, beautiful historic city hall. This incredible Victorian building housed the grandest ballroom I've ever seen. With a quick, last-minute performance organised, I had a blast showing the townspeople just how to shake their feathers in their most extravagant, pink-tutu-fied outfits.
It’s truly inspiring when people feel comfortable enough to be themselves and express their true selves and what I saw on the night, as one woman explained it, was 'the power of pink' and its effect on empowering the girls in Carlisle to find their inner tutu goddess!
It's moments like these that remind me why I do what I do. To spread the joy, the happiness, the self-acceptance that comes with wearing a pink tutu, and maybe, just maybe, convince a few more people that wearing a pink tutu is, in fact, the greatest feeling in the world. [PHOTO OF ALEX PERFORMING ON STAGE]
Where to Find Your Pink Tutu Sparkle!
If you find yourself in Carlisle and want to unleash your inner Pink Tutu Sparkles, here's my insider tips on how to get your tutu-fix in this fabulous town.
Tutu Shopping:
- The Millhouse: This fabulous local craft shop is the perfect place to find handmade gifts and treasures. There’s a wide array of brightly coloured tulle fabrics and a whole section dedicated to crafting and costume making. I managed to grab myself a whole stash of pink feathers there for a brand new pink, feathered, sparkly costume. This little place is like a treasure trove.
- Carlisle Market: For the vintage and vintage-inspired lover, the stalls in the local market were like a time machine, bringing me back to the retro 50s, 60s, 70s and early 80s styles that made these periods of time so incredibly creative, fabulous and well....PINK!
Ballet Bliss:
- The Cumbria School of Dance: If you're a lover of dance, head over to this gem for the best ballet classes in Carlisle. I always love trying out a few dance moves in new locations – who knows, perhaps I’ll incorporate some ballet elements into a future show.
- Carlisle’s Theatre Royal: This historic theatre is full of theatrical history, it boasts an incredible, breathtaking programme with some truly phenomenal performances, both ballets and musical theatre, throughout the year. They’ve got everything you need to experience an incredible dance show, from contemporary to ballet.
Dance Workshops and classes: Carlisle is absolutely bursting with dancing classes and workshops. And not just ballet – you can also find everything from swing to salsa to belly dancing. You could go crazy on this amazing array of classes. Carlisle’s definitely getting my seal of approval for the huge variety of activities it has to offer, something for everyone, at all levels of experience, from novice to professional. There really is something for everyone, as the old saying goes.
Eating My Way Through Carlisle:
The Old Bank House: Fancy a meal in a beautiful building? Look no further than this gem of a restaurant, where the food is exquisite, and the atmosphere makes you feel like you've stepped into a storybook. This is one to save for a special night out and be sure to take your date. [PHOTO OF THE RESTAURANT’S FOOD]
Carlisle’s Café Culture: Forget the stuffy coffee shops! In Carlisle, the café scene is just bursting with unique charm. The cafes were just blossoming with an independent, vibrant creative vibe, offering the perfect pit stop for your tea and cakes, all served with a heaping side of loveliness and joy. [PHOTO OF CAKES]
Why Pink Tutus Matter: A Sparkle of Reflection
Throughout my trip to Carlisle, one thought continued to resonate with me – the power of colour. Pink isn’t just a colour – it's a feeling, a message. Pink signifies optimism, kindness, love. For many, wearing a pink tutu is an act of self-expression. A way to say "I’m unafraid," "I'm free," "I love myself just the way I am."
Carlisle became a perfect reflection of this. Its people embraced me with open arms, making me feel so welcomed and cherished. They embodied the same optimism, joy and sense of kindness that I try to carry within me. It felt like an environment where everyone had permission to express their uniqueness. That, for me, was the magic of Carlisle.
So, darling readers, let your pink tutu shine wherever you go! Life is meant to be colourful, fun, and above all, full of glitter!
See you on the next adventure, and be sure to wear something pink!
With loads of love and glitter,
Pink Tutu Sparkles
[PHOTO OF ALEX IN CARLISLE]
