#PinkTutuBlogNYC Monday 2022-12-12 she danced in New York City

Hello lovelies! 🩰 Welcome back to another Monday installment of #PinkTutuBlogNYC. It's me, Emma, your trusty pink tutu-wearing guide to the fabulous side of New York City. I'm here to bring you a dose of sunshine and sprinkle some glitter on your Monday blues!

This week, I'm practically bouncing with excitement, because let's be honest, who doesn't love a trip to the Big Apple?! Especially when you get to combine it with a flurry of exciting ballet performances and of course, some delightful shopping!

So, grab your favourite hot chocolate, settle in with a slice of cake and let me tell you all about my incredible weekend...

First up, we had a delightful performance at the Joyce Theatre in Chelsea. I was dancing with the New York Choreographic Institute - a fantastic experience showcasing the incredible talent in the city. I must say, the performance felt a little different in this stunning venue compared to my usual stage back home in Derbyshire. This beautiful theatre oozed history and sophistication. I felt truly lucky to be performing there!

But the night was far from over. After the performance, the dancers were invited to join in a late-night rehearsal at the Studio B just off Times Square, a lively and buzzing dance studio where we had a blast dancing the night away until well past midnight!

You see, that's what I love about New York City - there's always something happening. And as a passionate ballet dancer, I am forever learning and inspired by the amazing talent in this city.

Of course, no trip to New York is complete without a bit of serious shopping! And trust me, when I say serious, I really mean serious!

First stop - a little treat at Henri Bendel. I couldn't resist a gorgeous new pair of blush pink shoes that sparkled like the city itself! They perfectly complimented my new dusky rose-coloured tutu, which I scooped up at Alice + Olivia. They say a little pink is all you need!

We all know my obsession with tutus knows no bounds! So, I also spent a delightful afternoon perusing the racks at the iconic Barneys New York for a classic tutu to complete my wardrobe - you can't have too many tutus, can you?

But beyond the tutus, I found a truly fantastic, velvety crimson dress with sequin embellishment that reminded me of the festive season. This one, however, wasn't a classic dress for me - more of a unique, dramatic and flamboyant piece for my personal style, you know the kind you just have to have for a special occasion - that’s the power of New York!

You’ll have to check out my Instagram to see photos of my loot! I have a whole ‘New York fashion’ reel on the go at the moment and you don't want to miss it!

But there’s no doubt that my favourite way to get around in New York is via the Metro! It truly embodies the city's unique character. There is a certain magic and electricity to these underground tunnels that adds to the energy and adventure of navigating the bustling streets of New York.

Riding the Metro feels like being in a scene from a musical; people from all walks of life, dressed in the most fantastic array of clothing - all rushing and weaving their way through the stations. You really get a sense of community spirit from those who make their journey daily - even if it means a little bit of squeezing!

It's incredible how people manage to make this their own space! They have created little pockets of their own amongst the hustle and bustle - and as a frequent user myself, I do the same - adding a splash of pink of course, with a little help from a couple of Pink Tutu bags!

And with the metrocard at the ready - you can go practically anywhere you want in this fascinating and electrifying city! It’s always so refreshing to escape to New York, where the only problem is too much choice - so many wonderful shops and theatres and cultural events, and I can hardly wait for what I will see next!

One of my all-time favourite pastimes is attending Broadway shows! So this weekend I simply had to see the ever-classic "Phantom of the Opera", at the magnificent Majestic Theatre.

I'm not going to lie, I was captivated by the incredible staging, the amazing performances and of course, the gorgeous costumes, including a beautiful pink sequined dress - I can't even tell you how much I swooned!

But the piece truly transported me to another world. The musical storytelling was truly gripping! And seeing those iconic songs and dance numbers come alive right in front of me left me truly enchanted. If you ever get a chance, don't miss out - It's truly an experience that stays with you.

But there was one element I didn't enjoy quite so much…

As I sat there enjoying the performance I heard this persistent tapping...

At first, it was almost hypnotic, a steady rhythm, but gradually it became a growing frustration. To add to my discomfort, I started to feel itchy… I really didn't know what to do!

And then it hit me - a phantom tick! That's right, right there, next to the pink tutu on my leg. It felt like it had burrowed into my flesh… Oh, the humiliation… but this is not the type of drama they feature in the Phantom!

But just imagine my utter panic and sheer delight at the moment I managed to grab the beast and triumphantly chuck it onto the floor of the majestic theater. I'm still feeling quite giddy and flushed after this thrilling moment - talk about an added bonus!

This event was undoubtedly one of my many extraordinary experiences in New York - a city which never ceases to inspire!

New York City always pushes me creatively. Even something as simple as my daily walk around the city, surrounded by an array of colours and unique architectural marvels - they really bring an idea or two to life.

Whether I'm admiring the Guggenheim with its spirals, or getting lost in a Greenwich Village bookstore, there is always a spark of creativity!

My journey as a dancer in New York, has already helped shape my ballet journey in more ways than one. This vibrant and pulsating city makes it easy for a girl to feel both daring and confident, but more than anything, I just want to make everyone smile - that is truly my passion!

Right now, my heart is set on the Museum of the Moving Image, which sounds like a truly fabulous place for a girly day trip. Maybe I will catch a glimpse of West Side Story, and then later this week, I'm so excited about going to watch The Nutcracker at Lincoln Center - It will definitely be worth my weekly trip to New York - and yes, the pink tutu will be coming along for the ride of course!

As for the next Monday installment of #PinkTutuBlogNYC, I’m excited to share more details from my trips to these famous places - so please, be sure to check in next week!

Oh, and one last little reminder - It’s not too late to get involved! Remember, every girl (or boy for that matter) deserves to dance in a pink tutu. You heard it here first! I’ll be launching my own pink tutu campaign later this week, and will be releasing all the details on Instagram.

As always, thank you for joining me today and don't forget to stay inspired.

See you soon,

Emma 🩰 💕 💖