Helloooo my lovely tutu-wearing friends! It's Emma here, back from another fabulous trip to the city that never sleeps. This time I've been waltzing through New York City, the most dazzling, vibrant, and frankly tutu-tastic place on the planet.
This week I'm bursting with excitement about my adventures. The energy of New York was as exhilarating as a perfect pirouette. And, just like the Broadway shows I was lucky enough to see, it was all about the big entrance!
This week was extra special. I had the absolute joy of performing at the Metropolitan Opera House in a new ballet based on the legendary musical 'West Side Story'. What a whirlwind it was! The pressure was definitely on, but when the curtains rose and the entire audience cheered, all those nerves turned into a triumphant leap. It was truly an honour to be a part of such a monumental occasion.
But I'm not just here to talk about my dancing. The other star of the show, of course, is New York City itself. It was my first time back in the city since February last year and I have to admit, it was truly like being reunited with an old friend. There's just a certain magic in New York, don't you think? The rush of people, the endless array of sights, the music spilling out from every doorway… It all creates this symphony of life, a sensory explosion that's absolutely thrilling.
Stepping Out in Pink
The most exciting thing, however, is that my pink tutu was ready to make its big debut. From the moment I arrived at Penn Station, a flurry of bright colours and excited shouts greeted me, the sheer energy radiating in the air. I had to have a special tutu for my New York journey, and let me tell you, this one was extra special. It was a ballet dream, a soft powder pink tulle with shimmering accents, making it absolutely radiant in the New York light. It definitely caught the eye and brought smiles to people's faces. Even the city pigeons were admiring, pecking away at my ballet shoes for a taste of pink!
Taking to the Subway (With Style, Of Course!)
First on my agenda was a trip to the Lower East Side. This neighbourhood feels like a different world. Cobblestone streets, trendy boutiques, and vintage shops, oh my! I felt like I'd stepped straight into a film set. And, of course, it wouldn't be a true New York experience without taking the subway.
This city's underground is an absolute world of its own! And, just to give you a sneak peek, I was definitely twirling as I boarded! Who needs a train ride? It’s a stage for my inner dancer.
Fashion and Fun
After a day of exploring, my favourite thing was to simply relax in one of the many gorgeous cafes scattered around New York City. It's amazing how every little cafe, diner or bistro in this city has its own special atmosphere. You can always find the most scrumptious tea and pastries - and I don't think I've ever seen so many fabulous cafes decked out in shades of pink! I’ve been known to wear my pink tutu for an afternoon pick-me-up, so let’s just say this trip was my dream cafe and pastel colour odyssey.
And when it comes to fashion, New York never disappoints. It’s an absolute melting pot of style and I can't get enough of soaking it all in. Whether I’m on the bustling streets, watching the city whizz by from the metro, or catching a Broadway show, there are sartorial inspiration and beauty at every corner. It’s simply impossible to not feel the influence!
Broadway Calling
There's a reason New York City is considered the theatre capital of the world. This trip I caught four amazing Broadway shows! I’ve been lucky to experience a world of Broadway delights. I absolutely loved the sheer drama, the spectacular set design, and of course, the breathtaking performances! My favourites were ‘The Phantom of the Opera’, where the music and storytelling swept me away, 'Wicked’, where I was totally enchanted by the magical tale of ‘the witches of Oz’, and of course, ‘Moulin Rouge’, with its vibrant costumes, sparkling cabaret, and the pure passion of the performance. It is fair to say it made me long to be a part of their cast.
The whole Broadway experience left me speechless. The costumes, the makeup, the dazzling lights, and the pure joy on everyone’s face just made me want to twirl onto the stage and join in!
More Than Just a City
You know what they say about New York: “The city that never sleeps.” It’s always a bustling, thriving metropolis. But there's more to this city than just neon signs, skyscrapers, and traffic lights. It's also got some wonderful, charming green spaces where you can find peace amidst the chaos, where a simple stroll in the park is the most romantic of dates.
It was the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of Manhattan. From Central Park with its vibrant green spaces and whimsical gardens, to Brooklyn’s Prospect Park, with its quiet beauty, I relished every single moment of peace.
The Tutu Effect
As always, I took my Pink Tutu on its adventures with me. I’ve made it a goal of mine to get as many people as possible to embrace the joy of tutus - you know, the pink tutu effect. The amazing thing about New Yorkers, though, is that they really do embrace individuality and creativity. My pink tutu became my travelling companion, and let’s just say it garnered many approving smiles and double-takes. It was even featured in the Times Square photo booth, next to the biggest New York screen! I’m starting to think that a pink tutu can really make any outfit even better, it definitely works for me!
This time, though, my tutu-spreading went beyond just the street-style, I wore it during a special visit to Lincoln Center. This was my way of celebrating the centre's dedication to the arts, it's a true hub for dance and a home for ballets of all kinds, so of course it's my ultimate pilgrimage! My pink tutu felt perfectly at home among all the stunning performance spaces and its rich artistic history, making it even more fitting to share its loveliness. After all, New York has always been my favorite stage!
The Derbyshire to NYC connection
I couldn't be happier to be sharing my love of pink, of ballet, of fashion, of travel, and above all, the sheer joy of dancing with the world. There's something special about a pink tutu, don't you think? It symbolises the beautiful mix of fun, creativity, and a touch of rebellion. It reminds me of those happy childhood memories of dancing around in the Derbyshire hills, before life's grand dance took me to NYC. The Derbyshire in me says: wear a tutu, make bold choices and above all: Never Stop Twirling!
Well, it's time to go and write a little thank you card to this most amazing city, and start preparing for my next grand dance performance. Who knows, maybe it will take me to even higher highs and even further!
Love you, love life, and love your inner ballerina!
P.S. - For the full list of events I’ve seen and the amazing places I’ve been this week - including that iconic cupcake shop (can you guess what it is?), head on over to my website www.pink-tutu.com . I can't wait to hear what you've been up to!
Love Emma xxx
