Good morning, darlings! Welcome to another glorious Monday, and to another week of adventures in the most fabulous city on earth, New York City! This is your girl Emma, ready to take on the week with my trusty pink tutu, my love of all things beautiful, and, of course, my ever-present trusty subway pass.
It’s funny, though, how even a seasoned city dweller can get surprised by New York City. Last night, after a divine performance at the Metropolitan Opera (more on that later, my dears!), I was feeling a little peckish, so decided to pop into the nearby bodega for a little late-night snack. I found myself the only person there, other than the incredibly kind man behind the counter, surrounded by mountains of cheese and salty, spicy, delicious goodies. There was a calmness to the night that seemed to say, “Hey, even the city sleeps sometime, so grab yourself a bag of crisps and relax.”
And you know what? It was the most wonderful sensation. I’ve been here a few years now, and I’ve started to understand that New York City, just like the rest of the world, needs its moments of quietude. Of course, those moments aren’t quite so easy to come by, so it’s truly a treat when you stumble upon them. So, maybe those big, bustling yellow taxis don’t actually roar into the night all the time. Maybe even the street vendors find a cozy spot to relax with a cup of tea once in a while.
Anyway, my dear readers, I must confess that this week is absolutely brimming with excitement! My calendar is bursting with plans that have got my ballet heart a-fluttering.
First up, it’s the start of Fashion Week in New York! It’s truly the highlight of my year! Every day, it’s a new adventure exploring the latest trends, getting a glimpse of the hottest designers, and, of course, spotting some fantastic street style looks. Oh, the thrill of the runway! This week is also my birthday! And of course, you know what that means!
Don’t worry, I’ll be sharing every moment of this fantastic birthday extravaganza on my socials, and be sure to catch me at my favorite little coffee shop on Broadway - the one with the floral mural on the wall. I'll be sporting a brand-new pair of pink glittery shoes, too!
Last weekend was simply a joy! I saw an absolute masterpiece at the Met – I’m talking Aida, folks! Verdi's genius brought the ancient Egyptian world to life right in front of me! I could feel the heat of the desert, the romance of the pharaoh's daughter, and the sheer drama of Aida's tragic fate. If you haven’t had a chance to see it, I urge you, my dear readers, to get your tickets now.
Speaking of incredible theatre performances, I’ve been absolutely living for the ballet scene in New York City! It’s not just about watching a performance; it’s about being immersed in the entire experience. It's about stepping into the opulent beauty of the theaters, breathing in that air of history and culture, and letting the magic of the dance carry me away!
You wouldn’t believe it, but last night, I was at the legendary New York City Ballet and had the best seat in the house for the spring preview. My goodness, the energy and artistry of these ballerinas and their graceful movement on stage was incredible! I’ve always had a deep love for classical ballet, so seeing a masterpiece like this on such a legendary stage – well, my tutu nearly flew off in excitement.
The only thing that could rival that thrill is actually being able to perform on stage. Every Monday, I make it to the wonderful studio in Greenwich Village that I adore, Dancers' Haven. It’s more than just a studio, dear readers – it's a community. The teachers are passionate, supportive, and absolutely bursting with knowledge! We work up a real sweat, but all the while, you know that those amazing dance classes are setting you up for a wonderful evening at the theatre!
And of course, with my ballet shoes, I also explore the vibrant cultural landscape of New York City. My wanderlust led me to the heart of Harlem last week. There I discovered a local gallery showcasing artists of color – such talent! And I know what you’re thinking, “Emma, you didn't actually wear your pink tutu to Harlem did you?”. But you’d be wrong, my darlings! It's a very diverse part of New York, and my tutus really are universally adored! Of course, I was extra cautious in those areas with less space on the streets as my tutus have a tendency to tumble around on those steps! I made a friend who taught me all about this wonderful area and its rich cultural heritage.
It wasn’t just the art scene that had me mesmerized. There were incredible street performers at every corner! One group even dressed in pink tutus (pink is such a good look, by the way, even on men!), and they were amazing. The energy in the air, the street food, and the colourful community were an absolute treat!
The other highlight of my week was catching up with an old friend from back home in Derbyshire! Now, don’t get me wrong, my love for New York City is unmatched. This city has captured my heart and inspires my dance. But there’s just something about having a friend from back home, someone who knows your childhood memories and shares your love for good food and good company. She knows that a true Yorkshire pudding, or even just a cuppa with proper milk and two sugars, can never be quite the same as back home!
We walked the streets of Chelsea, marvelling at the stylish boutiques, soaking in the atmosphere, and stopping every few steps to gasp at some incredible street art – it really was an adventure.
There is no denying that life in this amazing city, New York, is pretty full-on and constantly pushing the boundaries, whether it's in fashion, performance, art or community. It's thrilling, exciting, and sometimes exhausting. The beauty is that I’m surrounded by like-minded souls who want to live, love, dance and learn every single day. It's a privilege to live, learn, explore and share with them and, with the magic of the internet, I’m able to share the journey with you too!
What’s more? My work allows me to share it all through the wonders of dance! So, my dear readers, be sure to check out my next performance! Catch me at The New York State Theatre at the Lincoln Center.
You know where to find me! My ballet heart is waiting to dance with you in the Big Apple! Until next week, my dears, keep spinning, stay fabulous, and don’t forget to twirl! And remember, let’s make the world a little bit more pink, one tutu at a time!
Love and tutus,
Emma
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