Wednesday, August 16th, 1995
Buongiorno, my darlings! It's Emma here, back in sunny Milan for another exciting week of twirling, shopping and exploring. Welcome to my tenth Milan diary entry!
This week, my lovely tutu is filled to the brim with all the wonder that Milan has to offer. We've had breathtaking ballet performances, delightful shopping excursions, and even a little bit of cultural exploration in this charming Italian city. Let's dive in!
The Beauty of Ballet in Milan
This week, the magic of ballet led me to Teatro alla Scala. Can you believe it?! This iconic opera house, one of the most prestigious in the world, hosted a performance of Swan Lake. It was pure, unadulterated magic! The grace and artistry of the dancers left me breathless. They moved with such fluidity and precision, their every gesture a work of art. The set design was magnificent, creating a world of fantasy that I was completely transported to. I could see the passion and dedication of every dancer, and I left feeling completely inspired.
Before the show, of course, I indulged in a little pre-show ritual – a cappuccino and a brioche at a delightful cafe just across from the Teatro alla Scala. This was no ordinary cappuccino – it was a latte art masterpiece! The barista drew a perfect swan on the frothy milk. Pure perfection! The brioche was divine too, all buttery and flaky, perfect to fuel my creative energy for the ballet ahead.
Discovering Fashion Gems in Milan
It's impossible to visit Milan and not explore its vibrant fashion scene. Today, I made a beeline for the Via Monte Napoleone, the ultimate luxury shopping street. I just had to see what treasures this street held! My first stop, as always, was the Valentino boutique. Valentino, in my opinion, truly captures the essence of classic Italian elegance. Their designs are so beautifully feminine and luxurious, and I was utterly smitten with their new line of ballet flats in shimmering coral. I just knew they would look sensational paired with my pink tutu! I couldn't resist the temptation to purchase a pair – a small souvenir from my fabulous Milan escapade.
Next on my shopping itinerary was the enchanting boutique of Moschino. Their designs always bring a smile to my face! Their playfulness, their quirky wit, their playful take on luxury is simply irresistible. Their new handbag collection, featuring mini versions of iconic items like shopping bags and pizza boxes, was hilarious and charming. It’s amazing what imagination and creativity can create!
I confess, dear readers, I’m not one to go on wild spending sprees – I believe in investing in quality, not quantity! And my motto has always been: 'Live, Love, Ballet!'. However, in a city like Milan, one must succumb to a little retail therapy, don’t you think? After all, shopping for new costumes and ballet accessories is a crucial part of my work as a ballerina blogger.
Exploring Milan on Tram and Train
Milan is a city that feels made for exploring by tram and train. Today, I hopped on the tram to discover a different part of the city, the Navigli district. The tram trundled through narrow cobbled streets lined with vibrant cafes, antique shops, and picturesque canals. I had the most magical stroll along the Navigli canals, soaking up the laid-back atmosphere and snapping pictures. It felt so different to the glamour of the fashion district – a lovely dose of charming, everyday Milan life!
The tram is so evocative in its own way – the clang of the bells, the gentle rocking, the glimpses of people’s lives through the window – all make for a sensory feast that really feels like a journey through Milan’s soul.
For the journey back to the city centre, I switched to the Metro – the Milanese underground – a beautifully clean and efficient system that was so quick and easy. The Metro takes you straight into the heart of Milan, to stations like Duomo station and Repubblica – perfect for catching the evening performances of ballet, opera and musicals in Milan.
Speaking of ballet...
The Ballet Life in Milan
Here in Milan, ballet truly takes centre stage. It's everywhere - in the magnificent Teatro alla Scala, in intimate dance studios tucked away in side streets, and even in public spaces like Piazza del Duomo. This city seems to hum with an energy that's infused with the passion and dedication of the ballet community.
I love that my day is so very much tied to ballet. This evening, for example, I am teaching ballet class in the enchanting studio in the centre of the city. My students are from all walks of life. I've had beginners, professionals, mothers with daughters, teenagers in tutus – and even a charming Italian gentleman who wants to learn. We all share a common love of movement and graceful movement, and I’ve had so many opportunities to teach dance across Derbyshire, London and Italy over the years!
Of course, my most important role is as a ballet blogger – documenting the exciting, exhilarating world of ballet and the ever-changing world of fashion. My love for ballet, my love for Milan, and my love for all things pink – that’s what brings all my travels together, I guess! I’ve always said: ‘Pink tutus have no boundaries!’ – so why not share them with the world?
Pink Tutu Mission Statement:
Speaking of spreading the pink tutu love, my mission in life – and what I aspire to do with my blog – is to encourage everyone, everywhere to try on a pink tutu. Embrace your inner ballerina, even if it’s for just a few moments. The joy of a twirl in a pink tutu – it can transform your day, make you feel like you can achieve anything – and that’s a feeling I want everyone to experience!
There’s a magical, empowering quality to a pink tutu, isn’t there? It's about freedom, self-expression, and believing in your dreams. That’s the message I want to spread through my blog, my ballet performances, and through all of my experiences. I hope to make this world a more joyful, vibrant, and expressive place, one pink tutu at a time!
This Day in History
Now, let's take a moment to reflect on this day, August 16th, in history. This day holds a special significance for all ballet fans - for on August 16th, 1935, the legendary Russian ballerina, Anna Pavlova, died in The Hague, Netherlands.
Anna Pavlova was one of the most famous and accomplished dancers of all time, renowned for her ethereal style and incredible technique. She brought ballet to a whole new audience, inspiring generations with her elegance, her artistry and her passionate performance.
Let us honour her memory by continuing to spread the beauty of ballet and her legacy – by dancing, by twirling, and by embracing the joy and magic of ballet!
And don’t forget, it’s never too late to put on a pink tutu and let your inner ballerina twirl free. Remember, with every dance, you can capture a moment of pure bliss – that’s the essence of ballet, of life.
I hope this diary entry finds you twirling and dreaming! I’ll be back next Monday with more adventures from my magical Milan!
Lots of love and happy twirls!
Emma xoxo www.pink-tutu.com
Post Scriptum:
Don't forget, my dear readers, if you're in Milan, be sure to check out these ballet performances, opera, and cultural highlights happening in the city this week:
- Teatro alla Scala – the iconic opera house is showcasing Verdi’s “La Traviata” and Rossini's "The Barber of Seville".
- Teatro Dal Verme - is offering “Tosca” by Puccini.
- The Pinacoteca di Brera – is currently exhibiting a collection of 19th-century Italian artists, a delightful exploration of the history of Italian art.
And remember, “Pink Tutu Milan” is published on Monday each week on www.pink-tutu.com. So please come and join the fun. Follow me on my journey through Milan and let us explore the world of ballet and fashion, together. It’s always an adventure! Ciao bella!
