Hey darlings! It’s Monday and I’m back with you from the Big Apple, as it’s lovingly nicknamed, or New York City as we know it. I am absolutely thrilled to be here - New York, where the dreams are made of, where the pavements are paved with diamonds… well maybe not actually diamonds but I do love finding an amazing bargain, and New York never disappoints!
This week I’m actually here in NYC for a whole week. My last post saw me swanning across London in the most beautiful sunshine (and yes, wearing my favourite tutu), but this time I’m here for work, well a mixture of work and play!
*How's My Ballet Performance Life? *
As you all know, I’m a ballet dancer and that’s how I fund these fantastic trips. This week I’m in NYC for three beautiful ballet performances. I’m performing with The American Ballet Theatre at the Metropolitan Opera House – can you imagine!? I’m really getting to see a different side of the industry here in New York. The ballet is fantastic, it’s a mixture of classic and new, the energy is amazing. I’m learning so much and already dreaming about taking this kind of dancing back to the UK to share with everyone!
Speaking of, a lovely lady told me about a new ballet school in Derbyshire that sounds like it’ll be amazing - we’ve only ever had ballet classes for little kids back in Matlock and Chesterfield, not the kind of school I’ve attended! If I can, I’ll pop over there next week and have a good old chat. The world of ballet should be available for everyone and I hope this new school opens the door to dreams and passion for local Derbyshire ladies just like mine!
All That Glitters… 😜
The first few days were crazy and busy, getting over jetlag, rehearsals and finding my feet – well more accurately, the best spot for a hot pink tutu! As a ballet girl, one of my favourite things about this city is the amazing fashion on offer – from the designers who are showcased in the glamorous stores along 5th avenue to the unique street styles of all the people in this diverse city! My little pink tutu is very welcome, even in the hustle and bustle!
But before I give you a peek into what’s made this trip sparkle, I do have to mention how I got to New York, the metro. Now you wouldn’t think of a ballerina riding the tube… let alone in a tutu! But let me tell you – it is THE way to travel in this amazing city, not only for a tourist but also for me as I’m trying to see a bit of the local side of things! So there you have it – ballerina, tutu and all, on the metro in New York! The best bit was a lovely lady told me how her granddaughters LOVE pink tutus. Mission complete… she was going to buy one after we chatted - another little Pink Tutu wearer for the world!
So What’s In Store for Me in New York City?
It’s just as exciting here as I imagined and I want to share it all with you! This blog will be a regular, juicy slice of what I’m up to!
The past few days have been a flurry of amazingness and it’s only going to get better… This week I’ll be taking you to some of my favourite spots!
Central Park – with the weather warming up, we’ll take a look at some of the best places to wear a tutu, (and have some gorgeous, picturesque photos too)!
Broadway - This city is home to so many beautiful theatres – and I am taking you backstage. I’ve managed to secure some fantastic backstage tickets. This city doesn’t just inspire me through its dance but through the amazing theatre scene, too! I am really looking forward to getting backstage at some amazing shows, from Hamilton (it's definitely my must-see), to Aladdin to Phantom. I can already see how all of this is inspiring new movement, stories and ideas for my ballet performances!
Times Square - A city in itself – how can I resist getting my own pic in the heart of Times Square? This is also a haven for street performers of all kinds! I’ve already been amazed by some of the musicians and artists performing here. So if you love an old school Pink Tutu blog update, of course we will be doing a Times Square street style session…
Shopping!! - Oh yes, of course! What would a trip to New York be without hitting the shops? I’ll be giving you some great shopping recommendations. We’ll have a look at what the most iconic and creative designers have on offer this season, I'm looking forward to bringing a slice of New York back to the UK – maybe a new tutu?
Foodie Heaven: I know it’s only fair, with me in New York City for a whole week, we can’t escape talking food! Now as much as I adore pink tutu style, I am definitely a foodie at heart… so my trips are all about seeking out that perfect cupcake or even that quirky American dish to share with you. Maybe even a little slice of a New York cheesecake? We'll be looking for the perfect location for my Tutu tea party!
A Moment in Time…
We’re actually on Monday 23rd July! This day is such a pivotal one for my personal history - you see, it was the day my best friend got married to a fab chap named Mark. We were still at drama school together in the peak of my tutu-wearing years - I may even have worn my tutu in a slightly modified, less flashy, manner to the ceremony... As soon as I got on the train this week, I sent a lovely message to them, celebrating a milestone. Such a wonderful day.
Well, that's it for now darlings. I'm sure that with all my pink tutu outfits and shopping expeditions I'll be sure to share all that NYC has to offer!
Don't forget to check back in with me next week! Until then, keep those pink tutus swirling!
Stay glamorous and fabulous, Emma xx
* www.pink-tutu.com *
