Pink Tutu Blog: NYC Edition #1199 - Monday 2018-05-28 - Dancing in the Big Apple!
Hello darlings! It's Monday, which means it's time for a brand new Pink Tutu Blog! I'm so excited to share all my fabulous adventures from my week in the Big Apple with you. Now, let me tell you, New York is a whirlwind of excitement! I haven't stopped twirling since I arrived!
Last week was all about exploring the city's ballet scene and finding some exquisite new treasures in the world of fashion. So put on your prettiest pink tutu (or if you haven't yet, go find one!) and grab a cuppa – it's time to join me on another fantastic voyage!
From Derbyshire to the City that Never SleepsThis week started with an early morning train journey from my home in Derbyshire to Heathrow Airport. I had my trusty travel tutu, of course, tucked neatly into my suitcase – pink, naturally. You never know when the opportunity for a twirl might present itself!
Reaching the heart of New York felt like stepping into a real-life fairytale. It was everything I imagined and more. Towering buildings scraped the sky, and the energy of the streets was simply electrifying. It’s definitely a place that will steal your heart – a city with endless possibilities.
I checked into a charming boutique hotel near Times Square. The moment I walked into my room, I could almost hear the sound of the orchestra warming up! It felt like a grand dressing room, a perfect spot for a graceful, girly spin in my favourite pink tutu.
A Ballet Bonanza!The main reason I'd come to New York? Why, ballet, of course! It’s in my blood! My first night was spent at the Metropolitan Opera House. They were showcasing a world premiere by a young, upcoming choreographer and the entire production was so visually captivating, I felt like I'd stepped into a living dream. There was so much movement, artistry, and storytelling. The ballerinas were simply ethereal; the elegance of their leaps and pirouettes took my breath away. They were all wearing their very own shades of pink. You see, everyone wears a little pink in my eyes, we’re all so much alike when you stop and look closer.
The next day, I headed straight to the famous Broadway Dance Center to join their introductory class for beginner ballerinas. This is where the serious training begins. You won't find any of that ballet street business here – it’s all about technique and perfection, pushing your body to the limit.
My muscles ached but my heart was singing! It's amazing what a community of dancers can create. The studio was brimming with creativity and excitement, it was infectious. I love how this magical world always brings people together. It's a truly unique language we speak, one of passion, artistry and hard work.
The afternoon brought a trip to The New York Public Library. Its architectural splendour reminded me of a beautiful theatre. After browsing the rows of shelves (yes, even dancers love books, sometimes!), I discovered the library has an extensive collection of dance archives. I spent hours pouring over historic programs, costume sketches and photographs. Such an amazing resource for any dancer to see where ballet came from!
Shopping Extravaganza!No trip to New York City is complete without a little retail therapy, and my girly heart was eager for a fashion fix! I wandered down Fifth Avenue, admiring the elegant boutiques, but I was really after something with a little more pink tutu spirit.
That’s when I found the cutest little vintage shop tucked away on a cobblestone side street. Inside was a rainbow of gorgeous colours. The shop owner had a delightful sense of style and she knew exactly how to curate a wardrobe that made me feel like a true modern-day princess. She found a beautiful, soft pink silk dress that looked absolutely stunning when I paired it with my favorite tutu for a quick photo-op in front of a vintage Cadillac parked outside!
A Magical Evening Under the StarsOf course, no trip to New York is complete without experiencing the magic of Broadway. So I bought tickets for a performance of "Moulin Rouge" on the last night of my stay. The show was phenomenal, an explosion of colour, music and dazzling costumes. The dance numbers were dazzling. From the iconic can-can to romantic ballet scenes, each performance felt like an emotional rollercoaster. There's so much passion and artistry that spills out into the audience; I couldn't help but tear up a little bit when I heard “The Sound of Music" being performed during a ballet routine - what a great song for all those dreaming of dancing.
After the show, I celebrated the amazing experience with a late-night dinner at a rooftop restaurant with twinkling views of the city skyline.
And of course, no good trip is complete without a photo opportunity, so you can find some shots of my New York adventures up on my Instagram feed this week @pinktutu. I also have a new vlog coming soon, sharing the best moments of this wonderful trip! Make sure to follow my channels so you don't miss out! You know I'm all about getting that tutu out there and encouraging everyone to express their inner ballerina! It’s all about joy and passion.
### Coming Up
My next journey? Paris! I'm so excited to explore the City of Lights and, you guessed it, experience its captivating ballet scene. I’ll be visiting the renowned Palais Garnier Opera House, attending a few shows and taking classes with world-renowned instructors. You can follow my Parisian adventure next Monday! It’s going to be fabulous!
Until then, remember to keep shining!
Love and twirls,
Emma x