Hello darlings! Itâs Emma here, back from a whirlwind weekend in the concrete jungle that is New York City. I know, I know, another trip to the Big Apple! But honestly, how can a girl resist? Itâs like a sugary, shimmering pink candy floss cloud that never seems to stop calling me back! This week's blog is a love letter to all things New York, a dance through the city that never sleeps, and a big, sparkly, pink tutu hug for all of you. Buckle up, my lovelies, this one is going to be a doozy!
As always, I funded my trip by performing! This weekend was all about Swan Lake. A beautiful, ethereal, timeless story. As you know, Swan Lake is a ballet masterpiece, and being a part of that in such a world-famous venue...well, let's just say it was a pinch-me moment! Each performance brought its own special kind of magic, and it was incredible to feel the energy from the audience as I swirled and danced on the stage.
Now, on to the New York adventures, which is what youâve all been waiting for, right? It was my fifth trip to NYC, and let me tell you, each one feels brand new. This time, I had my sights set on experiencing the city like a true New Yorker (well, as much as a pink-tutu-clad, ballerina-by-day tourist can!).
My first stop was Central Park for some sunshine and a picnic. What's a trip to NYC without a classic picnic in the heart of Manhattan, right? I had found this fantastic little bakery in the West Village and, of course, I went a little pink-tastic with my selection: a delightful, pastel-pink vanilla cake with rose water frosting and some beautiful, pink, petal-topped cupcakes for a true fairy tale moment. I found a lovely spot near Bethesda Fountain, laid out my fluffy pink blanket, and let the vibrant energy of the city wash over me.
Central Park was teeming with life, from families enjoying a leisurely stroll to young couples having a romantic afternoon, to groups of friends having a picnic like me. You know what makes New York City so wonderful? That it is constantly abuzz, full of joy and vibrant life, the energy is just contagious! And of course, I couldnât resist a bit of ballet-inspired picnicking. A couple of quick pirouettes and a graceful fouettĂ© â the park transformed into my own personal stage. It's incredible how just a touch of dance can elevate an everyday experience, isn't it?
The subway was my loyal friend this trip. Let me tell you, there's nothing quite like whizzing through the concrete jungle on the underground. Itâs a bit of a sensory overload but a fascinating and totally authentic way to experience the city. It felt almost like a backstage experience â like I was part of a show myself! Imagine the crowds as a ballet company, rushing around backstage, with every carriage being the next performance. I found it wonderfully magical, all the buzz, the clatter, the chatter â the excitement!
I couldnât resist exploring the iconic Broadway Theatre District. That area is so exciting â buzzing with energy! As a massive theatre buff, seeing the legendary lights of Times Square is just awe-inspiring. This is the home of theatre in America, and honestly, thereâs something special in the air â I felt a wave of artistic energy, ready to explode. And guess what, you wouldnât believe it â I caught a flash performance right in Times Square! It was a little impromptu hip-hop dance crew and, oh, they were amazing! I donât think I stopped grinning for the rest of the evening! The whole vibe there was absolutely infectious.
No trip to New York is complete without a visit to Lincoln Center, and I went there with my dance friends. It was the home to this weekend's Swan Lake performances. To be back at the venue again and dance there just felt special, so full of history! There's a sense of magical history within those walls, it felt almost electric. My favourite thing is how all of New York embraces its art scene â you donât need to visit a prestigious theatre to experience an amazing performance! Street dance is an art form and there is so much talent out there!
Of course, no journey to New York would be complete without a little shopping spree! What better place to fuel my passion for fashion than the city that never sleeps, where the trends are born and never die? The sheer volume of clothes stores is something else! You know me and pretty, pink, tutus! My latest acquisition â a hand-stitched lavender tulle number with delicate embroidered roses, an absolute dream, isnât it? You can get my full outfit details on my website!
I found the perfect * pink velvet bag for a dash of glamour. You know I always look for the right mix of sparkle and practicality â the perfect accessory! Oh, and a little secret â I discovered this little shop tucked away in the heart of Greenwich Village and picked up a vintage brooch â *a miniature dancing ballerina with a tiny, pearl pink tutu! She looks so whimsical and elegant; I feel like she's bringing a touch of ballet magic everywhere I go!
As always, New York never disappoints â this trip was a fusion of art, adventure, and absolutely fabulous shopping (the pinks are out in force!). Oh, did I mention the amazing New York pastries? My trip wouldn't be complete without them â flaky croissants, sugar-dusted donuts, decadent cheesecake! A true testament to my insatiable sweet tooth!
You know, New York City is just bursting with vibrant life and energy â it truly is a feast for all the senses! You really just need to experience it to feel it! I encourage you all to plan a trip and experience it for yourself!
Oh! Donât forget, this week is National Ballet Week! This gives me such joy as a ballerina, I truly hope it inspires everyone to grab their shoes and go dancing. Be it at a class, a show, or even just in your living room! And to help get you into that magical ballet spirit, here is a little ballet-themed playlist you can put on â "Tutu and Sparkleâ:
- "Waltz of the Flowers" from Tchaikovskyâs âThe Nutcrackerâ - a quintessential ballet tune
- "La Vie en Rose" â a little romantic charm
- "Can-Can" from Offenbachâs âOrpheus in the Underworld" â a sassy, spirited number
- "Sugarplum Fairy" â the iconic and dreamy waltz
- âOn Top of the Worldâ â for that soaring feeling!
Oh, I almost forgot! This weekend was also the launch of my New York city tour! That's right, darling! I am now offering my own special, ballet-themed, pink-tutu tours! Who else would want to experience New York through a ballerina's eyes? For the full details and to book your experience, simply head to my website www.pink-tutu.com where you can also purchase all the products from my pink collection! It will include all the places I have visited in this post - we will even stop for some treats from that fantastic little bakery. I hope I can inspire some of you to try out your own dance-tastic tour of NYC!
From the pink-tutu filled streets of New York to all of you â stay stylish, embrace your inner sparkle, and keep on twirling!
Love always,
Emma
Pink Tutu Blog
www.pink-tutu.com
