Hello my dearest Tutu Twirlers! It's Emma, your resident pink tutu-clad, NYC explorer, and I'm back with another instalment from the Big Apple! It feels like only yesterday I was saying "ta-ra" to the Derbyshire hills and boarding the plane, but already a week has whizzed by, packed with so much sparkly, swishy fun that I'm still buzzing like a bee in a meadow of roses!
As always, the trusty Pink Tutu Blog is updated every Monday on www.pink-tutu.com. It's my weekly diary of all things fabulous and frilly in the fabulous, fast-paced city of New York. So, grab a cuppa (or a milkshake, why not?!), get comfy, and let's get ready to twirl!
Dancing My Way to Broadway
Last Monday, October 9th, marked a whirlwind day of rehearsals and performance - a proper ballet ballet girl's day out! It was my third week performing with the 'Ballerina Blondes' in a dazzling, sequin-tastic show at the historic Apollo Theatre. Every performance is an explosion of colours, energy, and, of course, pink tutus galore.
The Apollo is such a grand venue - imagine gilded balconies, velvet curtains, and chandeliers twinkling like a million tiny stars. The whole place has this buzz about it, like you can practically feel the echoes of legendary performances from decades past. It's an honour to even set foot on that stage!
This week, I had the added thrill of playing the 'Sugar Plum Fairy' in the second act of our show. Now, you'll have to imagine this scene: I'm all sparkly, ethereal, wearing the most stunning, billowing pink tutu, dancing with an elegant prince, while a full orchestra plays some of Tchaikovsky's most gorgeous melodies. If this doesn't sound like the ultimate ballerina fantasy, I don't know what does!
But beyond the fairytale spectacle, it's the camaraderie between us dancers that makes every performance so special. We rehearse hard, laugh a lot, share beauty tips (yes, the 'Ballerina Blondes' take beauty seriously!), and even enjoy some post-show cupcakes together!
Fashion Fun and Foodie Finds
Of course, it wouldn't be a true Emma-in-NYC blog post without a bit of fashion fun, right? So let's talk tutus. The "Ballerina Blondes" have this fantastic costume designer, Sarah. Sarah, with her keen eye for fashion and her knack for bringing our 'tutu dreams' to life, is the mastermind behind our fabulous stage wardrobe.
This week, we've got this vibrant electric-blue tutu (sparkly, naturally!) with matching silver sequin top and hot pink ballet slippers. Trust me, this is going to be the 'gram shot of the week! But don't worry, my lovely tutu lovers, I'll be doing a full 'outfit' blog post soon so you can all get inspired for your next ballerina-inspired look.
Speaking of fashion, I couldn't resist taking a day off to explore the Garment District. What a haven for fabric, beads, and all things sparkly! I found some gorgeous silk fabrics, a selection of sparkly brooches (a bit much, you say? Never!), and a gorgeous pair of pearl earrings that are begging to be featured in my next performance.
While I'm on the topic of NYC, you simply cannot miss a trip to Central Park. It's truly a green oasis in the heart of the city. This weekend, I had the most fabulous time exploring its hidden paths, picnicking under the autumnal leaves, and spotting adorable little squirrels with their fluffy tails! I even met a group of street performers - ballet dancers, naturally! - and enjoyed their spirited, spontaneous performances in front of the Bethesda Fountain.
And then there was the food! This week I devoured a truly decadent cupcake from Magnolia Bakery - "Pink Vanilla Cupcake with White Frosting" - yes, the perfect sweet treat! I even found myself a hidden little bistro in Greenwich Village - cobblestone streets, warm lighting, and the most heavenly lasagna I've ever had! (Did I mention that this bistro serves pink lemonade? Yes, you read that right. Pink. Lemonade!)
The Joy of The Metro - A Ballerina's View
I love everything about the New York Metro - from the clanging bells to the frantic shouts of the conductor, from the eclectic passengers in their perfectly curated 'New York' styles, to the 'always-on-the-go' energy. Honestly, the metro is an urban ballet in itself!
I found this little-known trick for saving a few pennies while I'm traveling - you can hop off the subway and take a short bus ride for the remaining part of your journey! It's so much cheaper, and the views from a bus are simply lovely - think rows of elegant brownstones, sprawling Central Park, and the endless rhythm of Manhattan's street life.
Life's Little Pleasures - And A Touch of Inspiration
Here in New York City, it feels like magic happens every corner, and my trusty notebook is overflowing with ideas, thoughts, and plans. One of my favourite spots for inspiration? The Metropolitan Museum of Art.
Stepping inside this museum is like stepping back in time, with masterpieces from every corner of the world - a ballet of brushstrokes, stories frozen in time. I spent hours marvelling at the detailed tapestry designs (they almost look like a miniature ballet performance!) and the stunning Renaissance artwork.
However, for me, it was the impressionistic painting section that really stole my heart. Imagine swathes of light and colour, like the feeling of dancing under a sky filled with sunbeams and soft, golden rain! The delicate strokes, the vibrant hues, and the almost 'dreamlike' scenes in those paintings really moved me, and reminded me how beautiful the power of imagination and expression can be.
Keeping It Pink: Tutu Tips for My Tutu Twirlers
As you know, pink tutus are the heart of this blog and the very reason I wear this fluffy, girly garment with pride wherever I go. You can always spot a pink tutu gal by her cheerful demeanor, unwavering confidence, and willingness to bring a bit of magic and sunshine into every day.
I love to hear about how you're all spreading the pink tutu love! My Instagram DMs are overflowing with photos of you twirling in your own pink tutus, sharing your pink tutu adventures, and inspiring others to do the same! This week, my lovely pink tutu fans have been sharing their stories of:
- 'Pink Tutu Fridays' at school - imagine the entire classroom in pink! Such fun, such solidarity, such a lovely way to spread cheer.
- *'Pink Tutu Day' for your city council - talk about spreading the message of empowerment! And you can bet this made a lot of headlines. *
- * A pink tutu flash mob at the local train station! Imagine the joyful chaos, the laughter, the pure joy of spreading a touch of magic into everyday life!*
This is what the Pink Tutu Movement is all about - it's not just a dress; it's a symbol of self-expression, fun, creativity, and spreading joy wherever we go.
New York City, I'm Completely Enchanted
This city really has stolen my heart. There is a charm and an energy you find nowhere else on the planet! From the iconic sights of Times Square to the quiet cobblestone corners of Greenwich Village, there is truly a bit of something for everyone, every single day.
I can’t wait to see what magic next week brings, and I'll be sharing all the latest in next week’s blog post. So, keep checking www.pink-tutu.com!
Remember, my darling tutu lovers, the only limit is our imagination, so always be brave, be confident, and always, always remember to wear your pink tutu with pride!
Until next week, happy twirling,
Love,
Emma xx
P.S: Don’t forget to check out my website www.pink-tutu.com for exclusive photos, stories, and a peek into my world.
P.P.S: And please follow me on Instagram @EmmaPinkTutu and let's share some pink tutu love together!
Remember, darling Tutu Twirlers, every day is a new adventure waiting to be twirled in your most fabulous pink tutu! Spread joy, spread sparkle, and make your own magic every single day!
