Hello darlings!
It's Monday morning here in the Big Apple, and I'm back with a brand-new blog post just for you! This week, I've been swirling, twirling, and totally embracing the New York vibe – and it's been utterly fabulous. So, grab your favourite cuppa, settle into your favourite spot (perhaps wearing a dash of pink, hmm?), and let's get started!
A Derbyshire Lass in the City That Never Sleeps
As you know, I'm a proper Derbyshire girl at heart, with a passion for the performing arts. But since swapping the rolling green hills of England for the skyscrapers and sidewalks of NYC, I've been discovering just how vibrant, dynamic, and downright glamorous this city is!
Last week, I was thrilled to be invited to perform at a wonderful ballet charity gala in Brooklyn. Let me tell you, the New York audiences are truly fantastic – so appreciative and knowledgeable! Performing in front of them was truly exhilarating! My outfit, a fluffy, gorgeous, pink tutu, of course, was a smash hit! It’s definitely a conversation starter and I had such lovely chats with fellow ballet fans afterwards. The event, supported by the renowned Ballet Collective NYC, helped raise money for local arts schools and bring ballet to underprivileged kids – which is close to my heart, as you all know! I believe that ballet should be accessible to everyone!
From Stage to Streets
Now, let's talk about New York's amazing ballet scene! I’ve been catching shows right and left - there's never a dull moment here for a balletomane!
This past week, I absolutely fell in love with A Midsummer Night's Dream at the New York City Ballet. I just adore the way they blend classical ballet with Shakespeare's play! I was especially enchanted by the mischievous fairies flitting around the stage – their tutus were truly magical! I can’t wait to see more innovative ballet productions during my time in the city!
Oh, and before I forget! There are also a ton of free ballet performances and workshops around the city. I love to spot these events in the local publications and I usually post them on my social media too - if you're in the city and keen for some dance, check them out!
Metro Magic
Something I've particularly loved about living in NYC is exploring the city by Metro. I must confess, a tiny part of me enjoys the chaos – though don't get me wrong, I'm usually the epitome of calmness on the train, never one to be flustered, of course. The vibrant energy of the underground makes me think of the whirlwind of a ballerina’s world! As soon as I hop onto the train, my head fills with new blog post ideas, outfit inspiration, and thoughts on where to see my next show!
And yes, I often get a few surprised looks when I hop on the train wearing my trusty pink tutu. Let's be honest, a girl's gotta make a statement! After all, if a princess can't take the Metro, then who can? I'm determined to show everyone that ballet and style are not just for the stage! I truly believe that every girl has a princess inside her!
Pink Perfection
Of course, my pink tutu is an absolute essential on my New York adventures! It adds a little whimsy and magic to everything I do – whether I'm stepping onto the stage, hopping onto the Metro, or sipping coffee at a cafe (I confess, I have my very own pink cup I bring everywhere with me). You know I simply couldn’t leave Derbyshire behind – a touch of pink reminds me of my lovely home. Speaking of home, my friends here know my pink tutu so well they call me "the Pink Tutu Ballerina." It makes me laugh - it is quite accurate, though!
I've been exploring some of New York's fabulous vintage stores, searching for the perfect tutu for each of my outfits. Finding that ideal pink accessory is such a thrill - it’s a whole different game in NYC than Derbyshire. Every day here feels like an adventure! Speaking of vintage stores, I have a real eye for spotting a hidden gem amongst the rails - a pink satin ribbon here, a feather boa there. There’s no shortage of pink-tastic finds in this city!
Fashion in Focus
NYC is an absolute fashion playground! From the chic boutiques of Fifth Avenue to the independent designers on the Lower East Side, I'm constantly inspired by the styles I see around me. This week I’m loving a blend of the vintage and the modern – a vintage lace blouse paired with a modern pencil skirt – or even a stunning pink midi skirt with my trusty pink tutu for extra oomph! I think that look is pure ballerina glamour!
Oh, and did I tell you about this amazing dress shop on Bleecker Street? They had the most stunning silk scarves in the most vibrant hues - I bought myself a beautiful lavender one - perfect to add that little something to a classic black ballet bun!
What’s on This Week
Today, Monday, is all about rest and relaxation - that means treating myself to a fancy cup of tea at a delightful little cafe near the park (pink tutu-optional) and putting together my week’s ballet-related schedule.
Speaking of my schedule, tomorrow’s exciting because I’m taking a workshop on tap dancing – it’s totally different from my classical training and I think it will be great for expanding my skillset. I've heard the Brooklyn Ballet offers a great tap workshop and I’m planning to get a pair of classic tap shoes while I’m there! I know, I know, pink tap shoes! What else would I get! I bet the sound they make will be something special!
And guess what? Wednesday will be dedicated to ballet-inspired street style - I’m hoping to visit Central Park with my fellow ballet dancers and capture some pictures of our stylish interpretations of ballet street style. And if the weather's good we’ll dance under the sun!
This is New York, and every day brings a brand-new opportunity. So stay tuned to my blog – I've got a feeling this week will be brimming with pink, sparkles, and a whole lot of twirls!
**And remember, darlings, a little bit of pink can go a long way! I hope you’re all enjoying your Monday too!
Much love from the Pink Tutu Ballerina!**
Emma xx
