Hello my darlings, and welcome back to Pink Tutu Blog NYC! The leaves are turning crimson and gold here in New York City, the crisp autumn air is making my cheeks rosy (just like my tutu!), and the city is buzzing with a certain kind of magical energy - that "anything is possible" kind of energy I simply adore. I've always loved autumn in New York City, but this year, well, this year feels extra special. Perhaps it's because I've got so much to celebrate!
Last week, I spent a whirlwind few days performing with the New York Ballet Company in their gorgeous production of Swan Lake, which meant, of course, hours of rehearsals, glamorous costume fittings, and, most importantly, dancing under the glittering lights of the Lincoln Center. The energy from the audience was electrifying. It felt truly wonderful to be sharing my passion for ballet with so many.
And now, I'm back on the streets of New York, ready for another week of adventure and, let's be honest, a bit of retail therapy! This week, my New York adventures will revolve around...wait for it…Broadway! I’ve always had a passion for theatre (I even dreamt of being an actress when I was little, and actually won a local school drama award with a rendition of ‘The Little Mermaid’ in a shocking pink, sequined, costume that would have made even the biggest tutu fan blush! Oh, how times have changed). So, needless to say, when the opportunity arose to see 'Wicked', well, I practically booked my ticket faster than a pirouette!
But before the big night at the theatre, I'm going to be putting my pointe shoes to good use on the streets of New York. You see, I discovered the most fabulous new ballet studio on 57th Street, nestled in a building that reminds me of a fairytale palace, complete with intricate gargoyles and grand arches! And let me tell you, the studio itself is pure Parisian elegance, with its high ceilings, mirrored walls, and the most delightful selection of pink ballet shoes! I can’t wait to share more about this hidden gem next week.
However, for today, let me tell you all about a very special experience that left my heart (and my pink-tutu-clad feet) soaring!
This weekend, I had the privilege of attending a beautiful gala hosted by The New York City Ballet Company, and let me tell you, it was quite simply a magical night! The event was held at the breathtakingly elegant Grand Ballroom at The Plaza Hotel. The ballroom itself was dazzling; a wonderland of shimmering chandeliers, intricately patterned walls, and enough velvet and gilt to satisfy even the most ardent fan of luxury. And the food? Simply divine! Miniature champagne flutes filled with delicate rose-flavored sorbet and exquisite canapés that would have graced any royal feast.
But it wasn’t just the setting that made this event truly memorable - it was the people. The room was filled with passionate ballet enthusiasts, from seasoned philanthropists to dedicated dancers, all united in their admiration for the art of ballet. I had the chance to meet the renowned choreographer George Balanchine (though I must admit, I felt rather tongue-tied; it’s not every day you meet someone who revolutionised the world of ballet!)
Then there was the performance - a beautifully curated selection of dances that showcased the immense talent of the New York City Ballet. And amidst all this beautiful movement, there I was, standing in my bright pink tutu amidst a sea of chic evening dresses and sparkling jewellery. Honestly, I felt like a character straight out of one of those classic fairy tale stories - a tiny touch of magic sprinkled onto a world of glittering grandeur.
However, you won't believe the biggest surprise of the evening. Can you imagine my delight when I spotted the legendary ballerina Misty Copeland enjoying the evening, even sneaking in a little footwork across the dance floor! Imagine, here I was, a Derbyshire girl with dreams of dancing on the grand stages of the world, meeting the most iconic ballet star in the whole of New York! Talk about dreams coming true!
Oh, I simply must share another little gem I stumbled upon in the heart of this exciting city: a quirky, delightful vintage store filled to the brim with a kaleidoscope of pre-loved clothing. The moment I stepped inside, I was transported to a whimsical wonderland of forgotten treasures: vintage hats with a touch of bohemian charm, velvet evening gloves that would make you feel like a glamorous Hollywood starlet, and, you guessed it, a dazzling collection of tutu-inspired dresses from decades past. This shop is my new go-to for a bit of sartorial inspiration. (And I may have left with a couple of perfectly pre-loved pink tutus, which I’m sure you’ll see gracing this blog in future posts.)
This city is truly a treasure trove of inspiration! Speaking of inspiration, there’s just so much creativity simmering in this city! Last night, I took a chance on an impromptu night at The Apollo Theater and, my dears, I was blown away by the vibrant mix of musical styles and the passion with which each performer graced the stage! The energy was so palpable, it felt like it would lift you off your feet (which, I confess, with my trusty pink tutu and the magic of music, I almost felt I could!).
I just love that mix of energy and passion that New York City seems to breed, that "make it happen" mentality. I do wonder sometimes if a touch of pink tulle is enough to propel my dreams onto the grandest of stages? Maybe it takes a whole lot more than pink to make your dreams come true… or maybe, just maybe, pink is the power I’ve been searching for all this time!
But there’s one thing that truly resonates within me as I step out into the glittering heart of this magnificent city: wherever life takes me, I’ll be dancing my way to happiness, and that's what Pink Tutu Blog is all about!
So, as I say goodbye for this week, remember, always wear a pink tutu, live with sparkle, and keep your head high - you never know who you’ll meet, where you’ll end up, or what incredible memories await! Until next week, my dears, stay fabulous, and be sure to dance to your own beat!
XOXO
Emma 💖
P.S I am so excited to announce my upcoming show in London! Yes, that's right, my little ballerina heart is returning to its roots. On November 15th, I will be gracing the stage of The Sadler's Wells theatre with a show that is sure to leave you inspired! Tickets are available online, so make sure to check the website for details. I'm sure it’s going to be a night to remember, especially since I will be joined by some talented local Derbyshire dancers - I'm so excited to introduce my home county to the magic of dance. You won’t want to miss this!
P.P.S Don't forget to share your adventures with me on social media - use the hashtag #pinktutublog and let's bring a little pink magic to the world together! 💕
P.P.P.S Keep an eye out for a brand new giveaway this week on Pink-Tutu.com. A lucky reader will have the chance to win a luxurious evening bag that would perfectly complement any evening gown (or, if you are brave enough, a pink tutu!), along with a complimentary bottle of pink champagne! Now, wouldn’t that make for a delightful evening! ✨
