Hello my darlings! It's Emma here, back from a whirlwind weekend in the Big Apple, and oh, what a weekend it was!
Remember last week when I told you all about my plan to spend a few days in New York? Well, it’s back! And let me tell you, New York never disappoints, especially when you're wearing a pink tutu. Yes, you heard that right, a pink tutu. There's just something about it that turns heads and makes you feel like you're ready to twirl right into the heart of the action!
As you know, I recently found myself performing at the gorgeous Sadler’s Wells Theatre in London. The lovely proceeds from that show funded my trip, so this New York trip was a very well-deserved treat after weeks of intensive rehearsals and performances. I must say, though, New Yorkers don't mess around. Even with a gorgeous pink tutu swirling around my legs, I certainly felt I had to hustle! And oh, my lovelies, did I ever hustle!
Friday: Fashion, Fuel and FunWe touched down on a beautiful Friday morning. The skies were blue, and there was an unmistakable sense of energy in the air, just like me! I think the New Yorkers probably think of me as an overexcited, twirling, pink ballerina in a tutu when they see me coming, but they’ve always been kind and polite so far!
My trusty luggage, packed with a variety of stylish looks (all featuring, of course, a fabulous pink tutu, for a little touch of magic) was ready to roll. And my schedule for the weekend was packed full! I planned to see some ballet, catch some theatre, do a little shopping (you can never have too many tutu-friendly outfits!), and of course, I needed to fuel up with all the incredible food this city has to offer.
First stop, my favourite little haven - a cafe just off Times Square, a whirlwind of a place and, naturally, my perfect starting point. My breakfast consisted of fluffy pancakes drizzled with maple syrup, devoured alongside a deliciously strong Americano. With my belly full and my caffeine buzz going, I was ready to hit the streets.
I spent the afternoon lost in the fabulous world of vintage fashion stores on the Upper East Side, the haven for my beloved second-hand garments. There's nothing I love more than a carefully curated piece of clothing, particularly a vintage tutu or something in a beautiful pastel shade. You’ve all seen my blog - it doesn't matter where I am in the world, it all looks beautiful in pink! Today, my love for pink extended to my vintage finds. I’d been looking for a blush pink knitted cardigan with big buttons. Finding it felt like a dream come true, as it will look so glamorous over my go-to pink tutu with ballet shoes. So many possibilities, my dears!
The day culminated with a delicious dinner at a cozy Italian bistro, indulging in creamy pasta with a side of prosecco, a must when visiting New York City! Oh, and did I mention, the restaurant had this fantastic mural depicting a ballet dancer leaping gracefully across a stage? Absolutely magical, and perfectly fitting for a girl in a tutu!
Saturday: Stepping into the SpotlightAfter a long night, it was time to experience New York City through the magical lens of the ballet world. Now, I’m pretty proud of my dancing abilities, but seeing world-class ballet companies like the American Ballet Theatre in all their glory at the Metropolitan Opera House - wow! Talk about pure inspiration!
It's funny, you know. I was back in my favourite pink tutu for the performance, feeling every bit the New York ballerina, but this time, my tutu was complemented by my absolute favourite sparkly pink ballerinas. For this evening, the dress code called for my pink, twirly outfit, and it absolutely stole the show. They call it the power of a tutu, ladies, and it is certainly real!
Seeing the dancers in their grace and poise was absolutely captivating. Each turn, each leap, each arabesque – pure artistry. My heart fluttered as I felt a connection with every movement, every expression. There's nothing like being immersed in such passion and dedication, it’s utterly mesmerising.
Later, with my mind brimming with ballet inspiration, I decided to try a little street food. From hot dogs to pretzels to churros, New York street food is an experience in itself, even for a ballerina with a tutu on! The energy of the city, the delicious smells, the buzz of the crowds, all brought a special touch to my evening.
Sunday: Finding My Rhythm on BroadwayI couldn't leave New York without experiencing the vibrant world of Broadway. I headed down to the heart of the theatre district to watch a Broadway classic, the award-winning musical "Moulin Rouge!". Now, even I’ve been caught up in the whole “Moulin Rouge” craze – it's so sparkly!
Oh, it was magnificent! A visual feast, a musical explosion, and of course, a vibrant tapestry of Parisian flair. All of it transported me straight to the red-lit boulevards of Belle Époque Paris. As a lover of dance, a ballet dancer, and all things pink, I particularly adored the dances!
My heart raced with the vibrancy of the production. It was like a dream come alive. I'd like to add, everyone looked so wonderful in all their flamboyant, shimmering costumes - it almost made me want to buy myself a sequin jacket or even a fabulous feathered boa for my ballet classes! But then, again, there is nothing as wonderfully beautiful, practical and comfy as my trusty tutu.
I took a deep breath as the final notes of the last song faded, allowing myself to be swept away by the energy of the crowd. After a short pause, the entire auditorium was in thunderous applause. Such a showstopper!
By this time, I was feeling exhausted but so happy. It was time to grab some rest for the long journey back home. I'd had a simply lovely trip. As I closed my eyes on my way back to the hotel, I dreamt of bright lights, magical twirls, and all things pink!
Until next Monday…That, my darling tutu-loving readers, is a glimpse into my magical New York weekend. I hope you all enjoyed it as much as I did! Until next Monday, remember, a little pink tutu can go a long way, and I encourage you to wear it with confidence, always! And, most importantly, never forget to embrace the joy of twirling and never let the sparkle fade!
Remember to visit our lovely little community of Tutu-lovers at www.pink-tutu.com where you can browse our previous posts, discuss your favorite things about tutu's, pink outfits, shows, food, travelling or even share your own favourite tutu memories with our supportive community.
As always, your lovely Emma is here to dance and chat with you until next week!
