Hello darlings! It's Emma, your resident pink-tutu-wearing ballerina, and this week I'm back from a whirlwind adventure in the concrete jungle: New York City!
I always said New York was on my tutu-to-do list, and thanks to a rather lovely opportunity performing with the National Ballet of America, I was lucky enough to spend a week in the city that never sleeps - and let me tell you, I lived every minute!
From Broadway shows to rooftop cocktails, museum strolls to subway rides, this week was overflowing with joy, laughter and, of course, some seriously fabulous fashion.
Let's start with my arrival - that familiar buzz of anticipation as I stepped off the plane. This city, it truly is electric! I quickly changed into my trusty pink tutu and matching cardigan - it just seemed the perfect way to announce my arrival in style.
We all know New York City's famous for its iconic yellow cabs and bustling streets, but I have a confession: I adore the metro! Honestly, there's a real art to navigating those underground trains, a bit of ballet in my own right, dodging crowds and jumping on just in time. The rhythmic click-clack of the wheels always brings a little sparkle to my step.
After dropping my suitcase off at the fabulous Hotel Chelsea, I practically pirouetted my way to a Broadway show - the stunning "Wicked" at the Gershwin Theatre! Oh, what a delight! The costumes were glorious, the singing incredible and those green witches had me spellbound - just as good as Elphaba's green makeup, don't you think?
Afterward, a spontaneous trip to Times Square. Now, if you haven't seen it in person, trust me, you have to see the vibrant, bustling atmosphere. It was a visual feast for the senses - a million flickering neon lights and flashing screens. I could hardly tear myself away from all the bright colours, it's just such a buzz!
But I am a ballerina first and foremost. The following day, I found myself immersed in the world of the New York City Ballet at the legendary Lincoln Center. It was incredible, simply incredible. To dance in that venue - the energy, the atmosphere - you truly feel a part of history. I managed to get a photo by the "I ♥ NY" sign in my pink tutu - what else would a girl do?
My time in New York City would have been incomplete without a trip to the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Those grand, majestic rooms and the intricate detail of the masterpieces - truly inspiring! But my favourite exhibit was "The Age of Wonder", featuring scientific instruments from the 18th Century. The design, the innovation, the history... a true inspiration for my upcoming performance. I'm convinced "The Age of Wonder" is where I found inspiration for a brand new solo routine! Perhaps with a slightly steampunk feel to the costumes…
For dinner, we sampled the city's finest cuisine – and I can definitely say, I'm in love with the delicious cheesecakes. If you don't indulge in a slice of the best NYC cheesecake while you're in the city, you're simply missing out.
After dinner, we joined a lively gathering atop a rooftop bar, overlooking the skyline. The twinkling lights reflected off the river, a magical scene worthy of a fairy tale. It felt like we were dancing amongst the stars - the perfect ending to an extraordinary day!
And speaking of dance… on a glorious sunny day, we wandered through Central Park, with its peaceful pathways and green spaces. I couldn't help but let the sparkle of my pink tutu reflect in the sunshine. As I gracefully waltzed through the park, it felt like a personal ballet performance, the backdrop of nature serving as the perfect stage. I found myself wishing I could bottle that feeling and take it home to Derbyshire.
Then, to the Fashion Institute of Technology to witness their Fashion Show, with incredible designs. I am sure they will inspire my own clothing creations - perhaps even a pink tutu collection? It's a thought! My own line of clothing - just imagine...
My New York experience wasn't all about theatre, fashion and museums, however. No trip would be complete without some delightful shopping sprees, and boy did we indulge.
Now, darling, I must tell you all about the pinkest store I have ever been in - it's a little gem called Pink Avenue. It was absolute heaven - filled with shades of pink from pale blush to vibrant fuchsia. From chic handbags to dazzling jewels, everything in this store screams elegance and a love of pink. I simply had to snag a pink silk scarf and a charming pair of blush-toned heels - to bring a touch of the city's magic back with me, of course!
You just can't help yourself - a pink-tutu-wearing girl always wants a new shade of pink to add to her collection, right?
There's a magic in New York City, that undeniable spark in the air, that gets you excited for the possibilities. It's a place where anything can happen and where you can truly be yourself.
I’ve found a special corner of New York in my heart. And who knows, perhaps my future might hold another "Pink-Tutu NYC adventure." But for now, darling, I'll leave you with this – don't be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and embrace your passions, just like I've been doing with my pink tutu travels.
Until next time!
Love,
Emma
www.pink-tutu.com
