Dearest fellow tutu-wearers!
Well, wouldn't you know it? Your favourite Derbyshire darling has landed in the Big Apple! It's true, darlings! I'm writing to you from a little haven in Brooklyn, just steps away from the vibrant and ever-so-inspiring, Coney Island. Honestly, this city never sleeps. Every corner whispers of magic and wonder, just waiting for a pair of twirling, tutu-clad legs to stumble upon them.
And stumble, I most definitely did! Let me tell you, getting here wasn't exactly a waltz in the park. The journey from London, full of excitement, of course, also involved a very long train ride, several bus changes (where did all those "express" routes disappear to, eh?) and, dare I confess it, a slight bout of travel-induced confusion. All in all, an excellent warm-up for the dance of exploration that I intend to throw myself into with my customary zest!
Now, you'll be wanting to know just how I landed here, in the bustling heart of the city, tutu poised and ready to spin. Well, dear readers, I snagged a fantastic opportunity, wouldn't you know it? The New York City Ballet is currently hosting a week-long "British Invasion" ballet festival, and guess who's got a starring role in a dazzling production of Swan Lake? You guessed it! Yours truly!
Let me tell you, darling, performing at the iconic Lincoln Center is simply exhilarating. You can imagine, the applause is so overwhelming it makes my tutu practically flutter with pride! Each performance is a different shade of magical, with the audience as rapt as the performers. My heart, it truly soars!
But alas, darling, there's more to New York than just swans and tutus!
This week I’ve been dipping my toes into the intoxicating whirlwind of Manhattan. And let me tell you, my darling readers, it’s an experience! I’ve had a simply delightful time strolling through Central Park, basking in the golden sunshine and picturing all those classic films shot amongst those majestic trees. (You know, those iconic, tutu-free films that somehow made everyone believe a ballerina would only ever find love in a ballet studio...)
Speaking of movies, my dear readers, a bit of cinema was definitely on the agenda. Last night, I experienced the joys of the renowned Film Forum – what a treasure trove of independent cinema! The sheer thrill of a captivating foreign film, accompanied by the gentle crunch of buttery popcorn – utter bliss!
Now, shopping, oh my dear shopping! You simply haven't seen the streets of Manhattan unless you’ve braved the bargain-filled chaos of Soho. This haven of fashionistas and the glitterati (myself included!) was a sight to behold. The air crackled with the excitement of the hunt for the next, perfect fashion gem. Don’t be fooled, my darling readers, this ballerina isn’t afraid of a bit of retail therapy!
On Monday 17th March I spent the afternoon venturing into the depths of Brooklyn, specifically to a vintage shop I’d heard whispers of. Hidden behind a seemingly nondescript brick facade was a wonderland of vintage treasures - silk scarves, sparkly hair clips, and, wait for it, a glorious vintage pink tutu that positively twirled with a spirit of its own! It's an exquisite addition to my collection and just begging for a theatrical performance, don't you think?
But darling, New York City isn’t just about the latest fashion, the delicious sights and smells of street food stalls, or the thrilling theatre shows (of which I shall indulge in many! I’ve heard a whispered rumour about a thrilling interpretation of Romeo & Juliet at the Public Theatre – can't wait to see what those theatrical whizzes come up with!). It’s also a hub of artistic expression, from the street artists to the towering skyscrapers that seem to pierce the sky itself! Every brick and every window pane echoes with a story begging to be told.
So, darling readers, join me in a journey of discovery! Stay tuned for my next post – I'll be taking you on a thrilling whirlwind tour of the city, where pink tutus are just the beginning. Until next week, I bid you adieu with a twirling curtsey!
P.S. Keep those tutus twirling! And let’s hope this city’s infectious energy catches on and inspires everyone, from Brooklyn to Derbyshire, to give a twirl for the joy of it all! It’s a beautiful world out there, and who better to explore it than in a pink tutu?
Stay stylish and keep dancing,
Emma
xx
