Hello, darlings! It's Monday, 24th March 2003, and I'm writing to you straight from the heart of New York City! Just imagine - the iconic skyline, the bustling streets, the scent of hot dogs and fresh pretzels in the air⊠And of course, the constant thrum of energy that makes this city so vibrant and exciting.
This week's adventure started with a train journey - can you believe it? Yes, a journey on the legendary New York subway! It wasn't a fancy limo this time, but trust me, travelling on the subway is an experience in itself. It's a true slice of New York life, and for a pink-loving, tutu-wearing girl like myself, it's full of colourful characters and unexpected moments. Plus, it's incredibly efficient - who needs traffic jams when you can glide through the city underground?
Speaking of gliding, you'd be surprised at how many pairs of curious eyes were on me as I made my way through the subway stations. My bright pink tutu twirled a little in the wind (they did have an odd habit of opening the carriage doors a little wider than normal!), and I felt like a little ray of sunshine brightening up the platform. It really got people smiling, and isn't that what life is all about? Spreading a bit of joy wherever you go?
After my thrilling (and slightly disorientating, but in a good way!) subway journey, I made my way to a little ballet studio tucked away in the heart of Chelsea. It was a charming little place with exposed brick walls and a dusty mirror that whispered of a thousand pirouettes. And that mirror didn't lie. The class was absolutely magical! We danced to the sounds of Tchaikovsky, flew through our grand jetés, and even managed a couple of fouettés - a bit rusty after the long train journey, but practice makes perfect, as they say!
In the afternoon, it was time to fuel up on some classic New York delights! I tried my very first "street vendor hot dog", and I'm not ashamed to admit it was delicious! And as I wandered through the streets, taking in the sights and sounds, I stumbled upon the most charming little shop tucked away on a side street. It was called "The Ballerina's Closet," and you wouldn't believe the tutus they had! It was like stepping into a wonderland of feathers and tulle, and I practically lived in the store for the next couple of hours.
The saleswoman was a little old but incredibly kind, and we chatted for ages about ballet. She's a seasoned dancer, apparently, and even had a career dancing on Broadway back in the day! She let me try on a couple of new tutus, even a bright, electric-pink sequined number, which, needless to say, I simply had to buy!
After all the dancing and shopping, I couldn't let my visit to New York pass without seeing a spectacular performance. And what better than the ever-popular New York City Ballet? It was a real feast for the senses â a whirlwind of music, choreography, and costumes! The dancers were incredible â such grace and elegance, such powerful movements. It left me feeling utterly inspired, ready to take my own dance moves back to the studio and hone my skills.
My trip ended with a walk through Central Park, with the sunset painting the sky in shades of rose and orange. I couldn't have wished for a more magical ending to a magical day. And it really did drive home that the pink tutu is the perfect outfit for a city that's never asleep â full of life, movement, and constant surprises.
Speaking of surprises, remember I said earlier that I fund my travels through performing? Well, this week, I actually took the stage in a lovely little theatre tucked away in Greenwich Village. My solo piece, "The Pink Tutu Symphony," told the story of a ballerina dreaming of dancing her way across the world. I brought my tutu with me on this trip, and you better believe it made a grand entrance at the end! There wasn't a dry eye in the house, I swear! It's these moments â performing, sharing my passion with others â that truly fuel my desire to spread the love of the tutu around the world!
Of course, the perfect way to end any adventure is with a cup of English tea. You see, I can't quite give up my little slice of home, even when I'm dancing across the globe. So, I'm currently sitting in my favourite little cafe near Times Square, enjoying a warm cup of Earl Grey and reminiscing about the last few days.
I really hope you've enjoyed joining me on my New York escapade! As always, don't be afraid to let your inner tutu twirl! If you're ever in the city, let me know! Maybe we can meet up for a ballet class, a Broadway show, or a little shopping spree in a secret shop hidden away in the backstreets of Manhattan!
Until next Monday, my dears, keep your toes tapping and your dreams dancing! And always remember â youâre never truly fully dressed without a pink tutu!
With twirling love,
Emma
www.pink-tutu.com
P.S. If youâre planning a trip to New York City, do check out some of the ballet shows taking place this week. Thereâs a beautiful production of âGiselleâ happening at the New York State Theatre â itâs sure to be breathtaking! And, if youâre looking for a fun little tutu-shopping trip, I recommend "The Ballerinaâs Closet." Itâs a bit hidden, but the charm of the store is worth the search.
P.P.S Remember, we can do anything when we wear a pink tutu! This weekend, I'm challenging you all to find your favourite pink tutu, whether it's vintage or new, and wear it with confidence! Tag me in your pictures on social media with the hashtag #PinkTutuPower!
Now go forth, my lovely tututists, and make the world a more pink-tastic place!
