Author: strayaninthecity

It’s hard to believe that summer is coming to an end- it feels like it was only just beginning and I remember my first rosé on top of the Bryant Park Grill so clearly. The reality really set in when I was walking to work today with my pumpkin spice latte in hand, and I saw a small pile of orange and brown leaves beneath a tree outside the studio. Despite the fact that the temperatures are still through the roof and I spent Labor Day by the pool at the Empire Hotel rooftop, the overall vibe in the city is that the fall is coming…

I had an amazing summer that involved a great mix of work, play and of course travel. Starting in my own backyard I managed to see several Broadway shows including “Pretty Woman” and “Head over Heels” most recently. I also spent many a day enjoying the rooftop pools that Nyc has to offer with my new favorite being “The Williamsburg Hotel” which has spectacular views of the city skyline and a gorgeous cabana area. Indulging in solo Central Park dates where I can read a good book and relax under a tree watching the people go by is also a favorite activity of mine during the months where it is warm enough to be outside. Visiting Nyc during the summer when I lived in Australia was always one of my favorite vacations so reliving my “tourist” days is always fun.

I am so thankful that Dance has taken me all over the USA and this summer was no exception. Each and every summer since I have lived in the states I have felt like I have been “on tour” and this one was no exception- if it is possible I seem to cram more and more in! Starting at one of my all time favorites in Iowa to teach at a summer intensive and set choreography (this feels like a lifetime ago) I experienced my first ever tornado warning! I then headed to the mountains of Tennessee to Judge and teach master classes for Platinum National Dance Competition. It was then onto the bright lights of Vegas where I was honored to choreograph the “Dance Force” opening number for the Starpower Battle of the Stars. It was so inspiring to work with the amazing talent from the West Coast and given that my schedule mostly involved night rehearsals, I was lucky enough to spend some much needed time relaxing by the Planet Hollywood hotel pool or exploring the amazing hotels along the strip. The Bellagio had a beautiful spring flower display.

It was then onto Australia with two of my best friends from the US – this was a very special trip given I had never really taken anyone home with me. I was able to finally let my worlds collide! This trip was simply magical. We taught and choreographed at studios all over the country including some of the schools that my alumni and past faculty now own. I was so inspired by witnessing my friends teach that I know I am now a better educator. Kristen you were right – collaboration is key!! From the gorgeous harbour of Sydney with it’s stunning bridge and opera house, to the glorious beaches of the Sunshine and Gold Coast, I believe that my friends got a real feel for Aussie life. They saw Kangaroos and koalas at Taronga Park Zoo, tried Vegemite (surprise surprise they don’t like it) and naturally an Aussie BBQ was squeezed into the schedule. My friends and family went above and beyond to ensure that this trip was special. I am one lucky girl!

We also went to Bali and ticked off a major Bucket List item for me by staying at the W Hotel in Seminyak! The three of us had been going non stop all year and it was nice to enjoy some “real” vacation time together!

Things didn’t slow down at all after that trip with the summer intensives still rolling in – Broadway Dance Center, Academy of Dance and drama in Connecticut, AIM in Long Island, an in-house Swag & Technique workshop at Epic Dance Center with my boo Jona Biddle. I went to Arkansas to teach at Rock City which is without a doubt a highlight of my year with my Little Rock Dance family, and then went to Massachusetts for the first time to attend the “Dance United” festival. What a gorgeous place Boston is and we were lucky enough to snag tickets to the preview of “Moulin Rouge” – look out Broadway this is one sexy show!

If your not already working up a sweat reading this I have commenced choreography season here in New York – the US learn all of their routines for the upcoming competition season in the fall when classes commence which is a completely different system to what I was used to in Australia. Even though we did more routines you could space them out! So last week I taught 22 routines at my Dance homes “New York Performing Arts Center” and “Breaking Ground Center” – the studios that I have worked at since I moved here. It might sound like a crazy, busy summer and you might be breaking into a sweat reading this, but my heart is full and I’m very content. I still need to pinch myself that so many people welcomed this Aussie into their lives over here in the US – I feel very blessed.

I am ready to enjoy the fall in nyc which has become my favorite season – for me nothing tops boots, sweaters and a good pumpkin patch. Although I will gladly welcome the routine of a schedule the adventure isn’t quite over yet as I head to a wedding for one of my best friends in the UK tomorrow!

For the past couple of weeks I have been indulging in the ultimate “staycation” in none other than my very own backyard/concrete jungle, NYC. With the weather bringing days of pure magic and my work schedule calming down I have tried to re capture my “vacation Shannon”/pre living in NYC” days where I would shop till I dropped, take in a zillion broadway shows, hit the best rooftop bars and spend many a lazy day in Central Park. It has certainly helped that I have had plenty of visitors, but boy has it been fun!

A few highlights include the newly restored Empire Hotel rooftop which is a hidden gem only a 10 minute walk from my apartment. Not only does it have incredible views of the UWS, Central Park and Lincoln Center, but it also has the key ingredient – a pool!! I have spent quite a few lazy days reading a good book, sipping on a cocktail (the watermelon mojito is my fave) and dipping in the pool. The beach vibes, combined with the cabanas and great music really transports you out of the hustle and bustle of the city. Everyone knows I love a good island holiday!

With Central Park at my fingertips I have taken myself on many outings to enjoy the beauty that it radiates during the warm months. I have developed an interest in bird watching recently and love examining the details and different colors of the wings – I find it so relaxing (a little Random I know). I often take a picnic blanket, a good book and just lay out in Sheep Meadow to soak up the vitamin D and enjoy the people watching. I enjoy this just as much on a quieter week day as I do in the chaos of the weekend where the space gives off a festival vibe with what feels like the “whole city” living their best summer lives. It goes without saying that Tavern on the Green is one of my favorite places ever. It doesn’t get much better than sitting under the fairy lights with a glass of prosecco, a cheese platter and classic tunes playing in the background.

I have also treated myself to several broadway shows – it’s crazy to think that when I was a tourist I used to see around 20 in a month! I am completely addicted and so in order to get my fix I have recently seen; Mean Girls, Carousel, Once on this Island and Summer: The Donna Summer musical. My favorite without a doubt was Carousel. It was absolutely breathtaking to watch without a doubt the most outstanding dancing I think I have ever seen in a show here. I am not a person who gets emotional easily and I found myself crying at several points during the performance. I’m not sure if it was the stunning dancing, or the fact that the storyline despite being a classic still rings true in this day and age and really spoke to me.

Rooftop bars are the signature centerpiece to Summer in the city in my eyes and I have ventured out to not only a few old faithfuls, but tried some new ones. Two that stick out for me are the Refinery Rooftop, which even on Wednesday night is pumping with energy and Le Bain down in Chelsea, which on a Sunday afternoon oozes Island atmosphere. They both have very differing yet spectacular views of iconic NYC including the Empire State Building, Statue is Liberty and one World Trade Center.

So despite the fact that tomorrow I head off “on tour” on my intensive/judging/Dance workshop adventure I feel like I have embraced the parts of a New York summer that are nearest and dearest to my heart.

I’m not sure if it is all the hype surrounding the upcoming royal wedding or my recent trip to London, but I can’t stop thinking about it! I have traveled to this city twice before and to be honest, I have never been dazzled by it at all. I have always much preferred New York and have only ever placed it in my travel itinerary as a place to “pass through.” A close friend of mine once said that you find “magic” in cities such as London and NYC – but I had never been touched by this so called “magic” in the UK until now.

Two weeks ago I was fortunate enough to travel to England on a work trip with Starpower Talent Competition to judge for the international component of this company. The whole lead up to this trip was extremely exciting because I was going to be rooming with one of my favorite people in the whole world, Alex and we had sent of stream of text messages with escalating excitement about our upcoming reunion. To further add to this we both had birthdays either side of the trip dates, and had firmly decided we were going to have a traditional English tea party to celebrate.

It was one of those times in the life where everything fell into place- from the empty plane ride on both legs of the journey, to the group we were traveling with, to the flawless weather. One quick fun fact is that this plane ride felt incredibly short to this trained Aussie – I think I have built up the stamina to almost desire those 14 hour flights (let’s see how I feel about this declaration next time I board one).

When we arrived in London excitement grew as we drove past the streets lined with classic British red telephone booths. Our first point of business was the tea party. Alex and I had carefully trawled Instagram and selected Peggy Porschen bakery where we indulged in strawberry and champagne cake and floral tea. The decor was all in my signature color “pink” and we were seated on a sunny terrace sprinkled with colorful spring flowers. It was the perfect start to our day in London Town. Deciding that cake wasn’t enough to sustain us we made our way to a traditional British pub where I was able to order a real meat pie – these are so hard to find in the US! It then became a grand adventure of let’s see where the day takes us…

It was then onto Buckingham palace where there was a photo shoot of multiple Prince Harry’s taking place – naturally I had to be involved. Alex and I jumped into the shoot and even the professional photographer took a few snaps with us in the frame. This gave the whole group a giggle and was a bit of fun. Nothing like a royal wedding right?! We then strolled through the park up towards Westminster Abbey and the scenery was like something out of a movie. The parks in London have such a different feel to those in NYC. They are so classic and elegant in their design and it gives one a sense of being transported back to another time and place. Everything was so lush and green with flowers in full bloom – I would have stayed there all day if I could have.

Despite the fact that Big Ben was completely covered for renovation our spirits were not dulled. We discovered a floating pub on the Thames river complete with fairy lights and fantastic cocktails. There was no choice but to stop and soak up the atmosphere with a perfect few of the London eye. With jetlag getting the better of us we decided to end the day with a dinner in covenant garden. It was spectacular with little boutique markets sprawled everywhere and a live opera singer entertaining the crowds. There were so many people around creating an electric energy. I didn’t want the day to end!

The dance competition was excellent and each morning before we commenced the judges strolled through Russell square gardens taking in as much of the stunning weather as we could. By the third day we were also taking our breaks in this gorgeous park! On our half day I also managed to navigate the tube and visit a good friend of mine Julie to have a delightful lunch over looking London Bridge. What a dream come true getting to see the world and do what you love? Nothing better really. It is always amazing to witness the dance competition culture in other countries – I saw a 5 year old that I think could out dance almost everyone I know! I only wish we could have timed things to be there for the Royal wedding. Upon completion of the final awards ceremony we all headed to the Shard for a very classy rooftop cocktail celebration. The view was breathtaking and I think a “Breakfast at Tiffany’s” is my new favorite cocktail! It was such a special group that was involved in this trip and I know I made bonds that will last a lifetime no matter where this globe trotter ends up!

It is fortunate that in September one of my closest friends from Australia will be getting married in Wales and she is holding her bachelorette party in this fabulous city.  I will have the perfect excuse to indulge in another visit to this magical place – there are so many west end shows I want to see and areas I want explore further. I apologize London for underestimating you!

Today marks the first official day of spring for all of us New Yorkers. In many ways it doesn’t feel like it given the icy temperatures and continuous snow storms, however I still manage feel the magic of change coming in the air. It is definitely on the way from the displays in the shops windows to the change in my nail polish color – that hint of new beginnings and fresh starts turning the page over to a new chapter is very much on my radar. One of my favorite things about living in New York is the ability to fully experience all four seasons. It really gives me a great sense of time passing and shows that things move along, despite what is happening in your daily life. I took the time out over the weekend to take two strolls through Central Park and it gave me so much excitement to see the blossoming flowers. Given the cold, windy conditions their heads were down, yet still the yellow, purple and blue flowers are awaiting the perfect time to transform the park into a vibrant, floral wonderland.

The most exciting thing for me about Spring is that I can spend much more time outdoors, which is a lifestyle much closer to my heart coming from the Gold Coast.   It really feels like the city comes to life during this time and we can all finally venture out of our apartments with feeling in all fingers and toes! Once it is warm enough I usually try to take an extra hour before work to sit in the park with a coffee and a book – it is incredible how much my spirits lift by completing this ritual. My social outings also change to meetings outside, be that a picnic in Bryant park, walks along the high line, gatherings at the boat basin or a sunset rooftop drink. Of course my favorite activity is a cheese platter and wine at Sheeps meadow in Central Park with friends. Being a walking city I am also looking forward to making my way on foot more so I can soak up the magical electric energy of New York. So despite the vicious winter storm warning for tomorrow, I am still feeling very hopeful that warmer, colorful times are on the way – times that involve my Canada Goose stashed away in the far back of my closet!

I feel that it is so important to escape your everyday life and environment from time to time to reset, rejuvenate and take time out for yourself. Not only does this allow to re enter your normal life with a fresh, relaxed perspective, but it also gives you something to look forward to in the lead up to a trip. Whether it is an extended weekend or a couple of weeks vacation, I feel that these “getaways” are crucial to a balanced life, at least for me anyway!

For those that know me well I LOVE to travel and it would be weird to think I did not have something brewing on the horizon. In NYC there is a winter break that the schools take towards the end of February and this year I decided to jump on board. Courtesy of some interesting travel experiences late last year I had flight vouchers to use, so in need of a winter blues escape I booked! I left behind the cold, icy, dreary weather of the city and took myself to greener pastures – California the land of 80 degrees and palm trees. If the happier weather wasn’t enough of a motivator I also have several of my closest friends living out on the west coast and what resulted was a week of complete bliss.

A few highlights included brunch at the Soho house in west Hollywood. We were treated to the feast buffet while brushing shoulders with some high end celebs including the ever gorgeous Chris Pratt who was behind me in the omelette line. A smoothie whilst wondering along Venice Beach and a sunset view while cruising the PCH was also quite spectacular. I can safely say that I do not take ocean views for granted now that I live in NYC – you don’t know what you’ve got till it’s gone I guess?

I then spent a glorious few days at Hotel Milo in Santa Barbara – what a devine little spot. I explored mountains filled with glorious wineries, stuffed my face full of cheese, sat ocean front for my morning coffee and sat by the fire pits in the late afternoon enjoying a good book. A ritual for me was my morning bike ride which took me way back to my childhood. With the wind beating against my face and the stunning scenery of SB at my fingertips I was on a complete high. I took myself over to Butterfly beach and into the lush town of Montecito past the mansions in the mountains and along various coastal routes – what a way to start each day!

I capped off my mini break with a day in LA connecting with two of my very first friends in the states – Lindsey and Jona. We had a fabulous brunch at a place called Republique which has the fluffiest french toast you will ever taste. I returned to the city with a glow to my skin and very full heart. If you are ever sitting on the fence about whether or not to book a trip – DO IT!!

When I say that it is coming, it has kinda, sorta already has arrived. Everything in my life is pointing to fact that dance competition season is a massive GO! However tomorrow is the day that many of the studios I work for will compete for the first time and competitions I judge for will hold their first regional shows for the year. From my social media feed to how the next few months of my daily life will be structured, dance is certainly taking the spotlight. Although there are several conventions in the fall, it is the next few months when momentum picks up and studios across the country showcase their new routines (solos, duos, groups) on the competition stage – all the blood, sweat and tears will finally pay off.

This “Strayan” is extremely fortunate to be involved in many facets of this wonderful season. I work in several dance studios throughout the New York area and I can feel the excitement growing amongst the dancers as their first performances draw closer and closer. I was lucky enough to set choreography on many of the elite company dancers at these studios and it is extremely rewarding to watch how the pieces have come to life and the students have worked hard on perfecting the challenging elements of these creations.

Many studios in the US hire theaters for their dancers to perform all of their routines on a stage in full costume – this is a wonderful idea as it enables the dancers to iron out all their nerves and for the choreographers to see their vision come to life in a setting outside the studio. I am fortunate enough to attend a critique weekend at a wonderful studio in Little Rock, Arkansas – it is a highlight of my yearly calendar and I leave with my heart full and my mind inspired. Collaboration is KEY on these weekends and it is the minds of many working together that can bring the company pieces to new levels and see them peak before the season commences.

This weekend I am heading to Washington DC to teach the tap classes at The Process which is a wonderful dance experience created by working artists in New York City. This company prides itself on guiding students towards becoming industry professionals and I am honored to be a part of this talented team. Towards the end of the month I will also begin traveling all over the country and internationally to judge competitions. The talent I know I will witness on stage is so incredible and I sometimes have to pinch myself as a reminder that firstly these are only children, and secondly that this is my job! I also get to experience so many new places and connect with dance friends I have made all over the world – can you tell I am excited? It is definitely worth the long weekends of travel.

One final thought is something I was discussing with a past student of mine who also now resides in NYC. We were reflecting on how much dance and competing has changed over the years, not only in terms of trends and styles but in how the preparation process is approached. “Back in the day” it used to be enough to simply move together as a group and perform a routine reasonably well. In this day and age the stakes are higher – every finger tip, every eyelash is detailed and cleaned. Sometimes I’m left thinking how sad it is that such well rehearsed, professional level items will only ever be seen on a competition stage and not in front of massive crowds. It really is the “best show in town” if you are lucky enough to witness a dance competition on group day and it is safe to say the future of the performing arts industry is well taken care of.

I’ll be in my little dance bubble for the next few months or as the Aussies day off in “eisteddfod land” – CHEERS TO DANCE COMPETITION SEASON!!

Many will say that no place will ever compare to New York and as a person who day dreamed about a life here I completely concur. However the reality of living here often means that New Yorkers can get so caught up in the hustle and bustle of work and the daily grind, that they forget to stop and smell the roses (or I guess in this city the trash on the side of the street). This past weekend I was able to get a weekend off to enjoy the city and it reminded me of the energy and thrill I used to feel as a tourist embracing the magic and possibility of the city.

I began my weekend with a yoga class which was the perfect start. Practicing is so important for me on many levels – my muscles need the stretch after all the walking carting around my heavy winter coat/backpack, and my mind needs the calm and peace to center itself in my crazy fast paced life. I then headed to midtown to teach my class at Broadway Dance Center which is always a rewarding part of my day – a little bit of a crazy commute given the Women’s march was taking place on my street but I got there in the end. Given that the weather was so “warm” which I say lightly as it was still much colder than the coldest winter day back home, I chose to walk the 30 blocks home from class to breathe in the city vibes. I took in the buildings really looking and appreciating the many cafes, restaurants, smells, fire escapes and iconic sights. My stroll took me up past columbus circle, the empire hotel, Juilliard and lincoln center – scenes out of a movie and a very good reminder that I am one lucky Srayan to be living here.

Next on the agenda was a night out to watch two of my very first NYC dance students perform at The Alvin Ailey Dance Theater as part of the Joffrey Jazz and Contemporary Trainee program. This was an extremely special moment knowing that I had been a part of the reason they were on that stage  – I have seen many of my Australian students go on to see great success and this is the beginning of a new era as my USA students embark on their success stories in the performing industry.  The growth in their technique in performance over the past three years has been magnificent and it was a joy to watch them perform – one proud dance educator!

One of my very first friends in NYC, Lindsey was visiting from LA for the weekend and she happened to be at the show so in a moment of spontaneity (these are key in NYC) I jumped on the subway and headed to midtown for a catch up with her at the very trendy Ace Hotel. It was so wonderful to chat and catch up on life with her – her infectious energy is great for my soul! It also didn’t hurt that we got treated like royalty given her hotel hookups #kenanjones.

Sunday began with a morning gym session. I know some people reading this are shaking their heads and thinking this cannot be part of a Shannon Atkins ideal weekend but it is still January and my new years resolutions are holding strong. Following this I met for brunch with my good friend Gabby Soto – another of my first and dearest friends here. In New York City on a Sunday “it is all about the brunch darling.” We chose a cosy spot on the Upper West Side called Ella Bar and Kitchen and caught up on life over mimosas and eggs benny.  Feeling relaxed and happy another spontaneous decision found me at the spa on my street treating my neglected feet to a pedicure. I then capped off my blissful weekend catching up with a friend I had not seen in years over drinks – I think this catch up actually carried on into Monday which is when you know it was a good one!

All in all the stars aligned for the ultimate weekend to inspire, rejuvenate and refresh me for the week and year ahead – NYC really delivered the goods.

Despite experiencing weather colder than I have ever imagined was possible and recovering from a horrific bout of Montezumas revenge I’ll give a big tick for the first week of 2018. So far, so good!

It is safe to say for those that know me (and even those that don’t) that I spent the last few days of 2017 in my version of heaven on earth. Just give me sunshine, the ocean, a pinà colada and a good book and I’m “pig in mud” happy to quote my Mark Bonenti. My vacation in paradise was not only a fantastic opportunity for relaxation and rejuvenation but a chance to reflect on the year – I took some serious “me” time to catch my breath and gather my thoughts for the year ahead. This involved beach walks, yoga, great food, reading and even a questionable yet enjoyable massage at the resort spa. It was the perfect getaway to recharge my batteries!

Returning to my cosy upper west side apartment was a bit of a shock to the system with the frigid temperatures freezing the city, however it has been a great New York week. I find January in the city is a fantastic time to nestle in and keep low key – a great time to Netflix, seamless and chill!

Returning to Dance this week was fantastic as all the dancers are focused and gearing up for the first competitions of the year – exciting times in all studios throughout the city. We were blessed with a magical snow day. I’m sure most New Yorkers would disagree with my use of the word “magic” but for me not growing up with snowfall I still get a thrill when I see snow. My favorite part is looking at it in the tree branches- it is so picturesque and like a scene from a movie I could only dream about back in my warm winters on the Gold Coast.

To complete the week my best friend gave birth to the most perfect baby boy. It really has been a fantastic start to the year full of love, hope and warmth (in the heart not outside!) Cheers to week one of 2018! You go alright!

The last work day of 2017 has finally arrived and I can hardly move an inch in Grand Central station to make that final commute as people hustle with suitcases and packages to make it home for the holidays – the energy is electric. In the New York Dance school scene, this final week has involved a lot of classes to holiday music and Christmas cheer has been in abundance. I’m ever so thankful that Mariah Carey created her “All I want for Christmas” album back in the 90s for this particular week.

Reflecting on the last few months of the year there has been a lot of exciting events happening in the world of Shannon and Dance . Over the summer months and into the early fall I was fortunate to choreograph 54 pieces for the upcoming competition scene. These routines were a mix of solo, duo, trio and group items spanning across genres of Ballet, tap, musical theatre, jazz, lyrical and contemporary – I’m already stressed thinking about ideas for the next season.

Throughout November I taught at 3 different conventions – DC, Dallas and Michigan. I was in charge of teaching the tap, musical theatre, jazz and contemporary at these events and I had a fantastic time in each city. I love conventions because they bring dancers together from different studios in front of teachers that they don’t normally work with for a jam packed day of doing what they love the most – DANCE. I wish Australia had more of these events on offer as I believe they provide such an opportunity for dancers to grow in an environment that is not always available at a regular competition. As a newbie to the states I have enjoyed getting a taste of each new city I travel to and have set up life long friendships with the other instructors on the panel. The Platinum National Dance Experience hired me in my first 6 months of living in the USA and I continue to look forward to the experience every year as a highlight of my work calendar.

In December I travelled with the USA Dance Company to Poland for the World Dance Championships in Jazz and modern. This was the experience of a lifetime and it was certainly an honor to wear a USA jacket and represent the country I have called home now for almost 3 Years (on Sunday to be precise). The group of dancers traveling were among the greatest group of humans I have had the privilege to know, and watching them win the silver medal in the adult jazz category is a moment I will cherish forever.

This competition is a far cry from the regular ones we see here in the states – the pressure is on and it is definitely set up to create an Olympic style vibe for the dancers participating. In some countries dancers who receive medals are treated like elite athletes and granted health insurance and sponsorship – so a lot is at

stake depending on where you hail from. The first major difference is that dancers may compete more than once if they progress to a higher round- in fact several of our pieces competed four times if they made the finals. This involved a full day of competing given that categories often had over 60 entries. It was truly astounding to watch a group of young students who had never been in an environment of this nature push themselves further with each performance to better the last – they took risks and dug deep to fight for their place on the international stage.

Furthermore at the end of each round infractions could be given by the judges if a rule was broken eg.costume was showing too much Skin or in our case of a prop marked the floor “floor damage”. Another moment we won’t forget quickly was the whole US team cleaning the stage in “Its a hard knock life” fashion. Gaining an appreciation for the fact that people from different walks of life view Dance differently has inspired me to become a better educator and it is safe to say I had the time of my life!

So as you can see it’s been quite the busy few months, especially when you squeeze an extra trip back to Australia into the equation. Thus I feel rather victorious making it to my final day of 2017 and very ready to curl up in front of the fireplace with a hot cup of cocoa (or perhaps a sneaky mulled wine).

There is nothing quite like New York at Christmas. It surely has to be labeled the holiday capital of the world. As a major Christmas lover, living here is heaven on earth at this time of year. There are a few personal highlights that I like to indulge in around the city in order for me to feel like I have had the full “holiday” experience.

The first is buying my own real tree and decorating it with the ornaments I have collected from my travels around the world. My latest addition is of a course a handmade creation from Warsaw. It certainly is a far cry from the palm trees we decorate in Australia and the smell of the fresh pine really helps create a cosy atmosphere inside my apartment.

Another favorite activity is making a trip to visit the Rockefeller Center tree. After first viewing this tree in Home Alone 2 as a child I’ve been obsessed. This years visit was like a scene from a movie. I had organised to meet one of my close friends Sandra at 11pm at the tree, however a series of events unfolded that made our meeting seem impossible – my train from work was 15 mins late, her phone died and we hadn’t even made a precise meeting point for our date with the tree. Fate stepped in and a Christmas miracle occurred – we randomly bumped into each other, made it in time to watch the fabulous saks lights display and got a perfect Christmas card worthy shot in front of the tree just seconds before the lights were switched off. We both agreed we would remember this night forever and it would go down in history as one of our favorites in NYC.

I also like to wander the streets down near Chelsea and soak in the atmosphere from the immaculately decorated brownstones. One can only dare to dream they might live here one day. Carefully hung wreaths and stunning trees with warm fireplaces are just a few examples of the sights you will see strolling along these streets and peeking in the windows – lifestyles of the rich and famous!

My final highlight is of course seeing the Radio City Christmas spectacular which I will be doing on Christmas Day. My favorite number is the bus scene that takes you on a tour of New York at Christmas. The other best part of this show is that several of my favorite people perform in this show making it an extra special annual event. The only other thing to make this Christmas perfect would be for it to snow- I’ll be dreaming of a White Christmas!