Pink Tutu Blog: New York City - Post #1115 - Monday 17th October 2016
Hello darlings!
Welcome back to my little corner of the internet where tutus reign supreme and pink is the colour of choice! This week, I'm whisking you away with me to the vibrant streets of New York City, a place that always feels like a fairytale come to life. As you know, I'm absolutely obsessed with the Big Apple - the energy, the diversity, the sheer spectacle of it allā¦and, of course, the amazing ballet scene!
Now, you might be wondering, what could possibly be happening in my little pink tutu world this week? Well, buckle up buttercup, because this post is packed with a whirlwind of adventures.
From Derbyshire to the Big Apple: A Tutu-tastic Journey
My week began in Derbyshire, England, the idyllic countryside setting where I grew up. Iām always a bit melancholy saying goodbye to the rolling hills, but the thrill of exploring a new city always makes me feel like Iām on top of the world!
This trip, however, is a bit different from usual. As you know, Iām a firm believer in living my dreams, and one of those dreams has always been to dance in a world-famous New York ballet performance. A chance opportunity to be part of the ensemble for a gala evening performance of Swan Lake at Lincoln Center has finally come to fruition, and Iām beyond excited.
It's all very exciting, of course, but it's no walk in the park getting ready for such a big performance. I've been busy perfecting my turns, perfecting my posture, and practicing until Iām exhausted! Luckily, my favourite pink tutu is all prepped and ready for the big event. It's all a little surreal to think that my humble Derbyshire beginnings have brought me to this point.
NYC Subway Style: Pink Tutu Edition
No trip to NYC is complete without a trip on the iconic subway. Let's face it, it's a whirlwind of noise, movement and, yes, even occasional odours! But I wouldn't have it any other way. After all, whatās the point of a fabulous pink tutu if you canāt show it off in the most exciting city in the world?!
Thereās something so uniquely cool about cruising through the subway tunnels in my tutu. It really makes you stand out in a crowd - especially in a city where everyone is busy pursuing their own dream. But my message, of course, is to wear your dreams loud and proud, no matter how big or small!
It was a good thing I had a comfy pair of my trusty ballet flats on ā walking through those busy underground tunnels, particularly in the peak hours, can be quite the experience! But even amongst the sea of hurried faces and worn-down heels, there was something wonderful about how welcoming New York felt to someone as different as myself. I felt a kind of unspoken kinship with other dancers, singers, artists ā those with dreams as vibrant and out-there as mine.
Exploring Broadwayās Theatrical Treasures
When in NYC, the stage calls. Now, Broadway may be known for its incredible musicals, but I couldnāt leave without a dose of the real ballet magic that's synonymous with New York. This week, my personal ballet journey in New York began with a visit to the magnificent Metropolitan Opera House, for a breathtaking production of La Bayadere.
This opulent ballet is just what my soul craved. Watching those incredible dancers soar across the stage in their breathtaking costumes, the rich costumes, the passionate storytelling, it was a pure feast for the eyes. The sheer talent on that stage, and the level of precision and eleganceā¦ it was enough to give even the most seasoned dancer a touch of envy.
After that performance, there was one thing that was calling me ā Fifth Avenue! A ballerina girl can never have too many new outfits, and this is especially true when visiting one of the fashion capitals of the world! After picking up a few ānecessaryā purchases (you can never have too many tutus!), I had the chance to enjoy some of New York's culinary delights ā oh, the delicious cupcakes and macaroons I savoured! A few calories couldnāt be helped!
A Grand Ballet Debut: Swan Lake at Lincoln Center
It's almost the big night! The anticipation is building, and Iām starting to get those usual pre-performance nerves, but mostly Iām buzzing with excitement. My dreams are about to come true, to stand on that stage in New York City and let the magic of the ballet flow through me.
Even the rehearsal process, amongst the bustling life of NYC, has been incredible. It's amazing to share the stage with so many incredibly talented dancers, who are all equally as passionate about ballet as I am.
I canāt wait to share photos with you after the performance! Who knows, perhaps next week, it will be all about celebrating and reminiscing about a truly special moment for a pink tutu wearing girl!
My Favourite Moments
Getting lost in the dazzling display of pink ballet shoes at a little store on West 84th Street. A girl can never have too many shoes, can she?
Encountering a street performer in Union Square, juggling and contorting with a twinkle in his eyes. He even wore a pink tutu on one foot ā my kind of street performance!
Having the most delicious slice of New York cheesecake, overlooking the twinkling lights of Times Square. A magical end to a day filled with magic.
Things I learnt this week:
Dreams, no matter how outlandish, are achievable, if you truly set your mind to it.
Every single moment, whether in your everyday life or exploring a new city, is filled with potential for magic and adventure.
You can never, ever have too many tutus!
To the Pink Tutu community!
Until next week, darlings, may your dreams be pink and fluffy, and your steps light and graceful. Remember, every day is an opportunity to add a little pink to the world.
And if you're ever in NYC, let me know ā we might just grab a cupcake and dance through Times Square!
Lots of love,
Emma xx
www.pink-tutu.com