Monday 14th September 2015
Hello darlings! It's Monday, which means it's time for another installment of the Pink Tutu Blog, live from the vibrant streets of New York City!
This week I'm positively bursting with excitement, because I've been indulging my love of all things theatrical and danced my way into a magical week in the Big Apple. As a Derbyshire lass at heart, New York's been on my bucket list for ages - and, like all dreams, it's even better than I ever imagined.
As soon as I stepped off the plane, I felt a wave of energy, a thrilling rush of anticipation that had me practically skipping with excitement. Don't be fooled - my travels are no leisurely jaunt. I'm funded by my ballet performances, which means juggling rehearsals, classes and gigs, while fitting in my explorations, a ballet enthusiast's dream come true!
Pink Perfection in the City that Never Sleeps
It's funny - in London, my trusty pink tutu feels quite at home. But here, it stands out like a flamingo amongst pigeons! Yet, in a city where the bold and the daring flourish, it's surprisingly not out of place. Maybe that's the magic of New York - a city that encourages self-expression, a stage for individuality to shine!
I haven't worn my beloved pink tutu on every outing, of course. There's been a touch of classic chic in the mix as well. Let me tell you, New York City has more shops than I can count! I haven't been able to resist a splurge at Bergdorf Goodman and a couple of delightful vintage treasures found tucked away in a hidden little boutique. I also can't resist a pair of bright pink ballerina flats. I've managed to blend my ballerina style with some fabulously stylish finds in so many chic New York stores! There's certainly a sense of freedom here. People are free to wear whatever they want!
From Broadway to the Ballet: A Feast for the Senses
You know how I love my shows, and let me tell you, New York City takes theatre to another level. The lights, the costumes, the energy of the audience - it's exhilarating! First up was Hamilton - wow! What a masterpiece! This story of the American Founding Fathers, presented as hip hop musical theatre? Absolutely brilliant! The musicality, the history, and the energy of the show had me enthralled from the first beat to the final bow.
But for me, the highlight had to be the evening at New York City Ballet. Watching these incredible dancers was inspiring on another level. The grace, the precision, the sheer joy of movement… It ignited my own passion for ballet, and left me wanting to get right back in the studio! They definitely made me want to perfect that triple pirouette. Oh, how I yearn to move like them. But as for my dancing skills, they're better suited to a cabaret, not a stage like theirs. They made me think about all the incredible things we can achieve when we pour ourselves into what we love.
Speaking of the theatre district, it’s fascinating to me how everyone, even the tourists, wear the most amazing shoes, from high heels to platforms. It makes you realise how much emphasis the American people put on appearance! But the style, it is really fabulous, the fashion here just oozes confidence and flair, which I love. Of course, my pink tutu does bring a few looks and compliments my way. The occasional smile and double-take are always fun.
Riding the Rails with a Pink Tutu
Who can resist a good subway adventure, especially in a city known for its labyrinthine underground network? I, for one, am quite fond of the subway – it's a journey in itself, offering glimpses into New York's vibrant tapestry. The New York subway is actually a brilliant piece of engineering, and even if the trains are crowded, there is a constant energy in the air. People are always getting on and off, going to work, school or out for dinner. The excitement of seeing people go about their day just never gets old!
Every journey is a chance to soak up the city's energy - from the seasoned New Yorker with a perfectly curated ensemble to the tourist holding onto a map for dear life, it’s always a visual treat. Then of course there’s the occasional glimpse of street art and murals that brighten even the darkest tunnels. And, you just know those brightly painted subway carriages, always clean and tidy, are another form of visual delight. There are so many things I'm taking back with me - the attitude, the confidence, the sense of being part of a giant moving and vibrant painting. And I have to mention that Pink Tutu, well, she's already a bit of a legend in the subway now - at least in my head!
New York - A Ballet-Inspired Adventure!
In the heart of the concrete jungle, it’s easy to be enchanted by the unexpected beauty of a city full of stories waiting to be discovered. Every street corner, every turn, reveals a new adventure – a Broadway show, a hidden cafe, a quirky street artist. I'm leaving New York with a thrill, with renewed excitement, a glow that shines as brightly as the city's own energetic personality!
The ballet scene in this city just lights a fire in me, a passion I haven’t felt in years. The New York experience is all about daring to dream, pushing boundaries, and dancing with confidence, which I hope to bring with me back to England. I always want to show you all the different sides of being a pink tutu wearing, dancing, ballet enthusiast and this adventure will fuel my dance for many years to come!
Well, darling, I have to sign off for now. I'll be back next week with more New York adventures, sharing my new ballet and style discoveries, and of course, my new pink tutu plans - for sure, they’ll be inspired by my latest travels. Until then, may you all have a fantastic week!
And, as always, don't forget to spread the pink tutu love!
Yours, in pink perfection,
Emma xxx
