Oh, darling readers, can you believe it's September already?! Time truly does fly when you're twirling through life. And where am I twirling, you ask? Well, it's none other than the glamorous, fashionable, utterly divine city of Milan!
This week I've swapped my Derbyshire countryside walks for Milanese street strolls, my trusty wellies for stylish ankle boots (that I may have accidentally worn with my tutu... just a tiny, little touch of rebellion, you know?!). But trust me, you can wear a tutu absolutely anywhere. That's the beauty of it. It's an instant mood booster and a statement piece that always attracts admiring glances. Even in the chic streets of Milan, darling, it holds its own!
Milan, you say? What a question, my dear reader. Why, Milan is a city brimming with history, culture, and oh my goodness, the fashion! It's a veritable haven for any tutu enthusiast like myself. Even the buildings seem to be sculpted to resemble delicate dancers, their lines sweeping upwards towards the sky, just like a ballerina's graceful extension.
But let's get down to the nitty-gritty, shall we? What adventures have graced this pink tutu this week, you might be wondering? Well, darling, it's been quite the whirlwind, let me tell you!
Tuesday: A Touch of Opera
The week started with a delightful splash of opera at the Teatro alla Scala. It's a masterpiece of architecture, with a grand façade and an interior that feels like a fairy tale come to life. I absolutely adore the rich history that seeps from its walls. And speaking of tales, I'm rather fond of Don Giovanni myself - the music, the drama, the sheer spectacle! A perfect start to my Milanese odyssey.
Wednesday: A Ballet Buffet
Now, what would a ballet blog be without a touch of the stage? Wednesday saw me diving into a whirlwind of movement and grace at the Teatro Piccolo. I don't usually post about the classes I attend, but this one, darling, was something special. The instructor, a tall, elegant man with a smile as warm as a summer sunrise, coaxed out our best pirouettes, leaps, and grand jetés. It was an exhilarating burst of energy and elegance, and even I, a seasoned tutu-wearer, found myself learning a thing or two!
Thursday: Trams, Trains, and… Shopping?!
Of course, darling, no trip to Milan would be complete without a spot of retail therapy! On Thursday, I set off exploring the city, hopping onto the iconic Milan trams. It's a journey I highly recommend, with the gentle clinking of the tram bells and the bustling rhythm of Milanese life flitting by. I snagged the perfect pair of shoes - chic black ankle boots with delicate buckles – to compliment my trusty tutu. My dear reader, shopping here is a form of art! It's an exercise in precision and elegance, from the boutiques to the department stores. Every single detail matters, every window display, every mannequin draped in exquisite fabric - all are carefully curated to offer a feast for the eyes.
Friday: The Feast of Saint Lucy
You know me, my dear readers, always on the lookout for a local celebration. Well, this Friday was special, the day dedicated to the patron saint of eyesight, Saint Lucy. This meant, naturally, a fabulous feast! The city is overflowing with pastries and sweets. This week my treat has been the Panettone, the fluffy, fruity sweet bread so loved by the Milanese. It's like a slice of sunshine on a plate, the perfect indulgence for a tutu-loving traveler!
Saturday: Teatro degli Arcimboldi
For this night of theatre I decided to head to Teatro degli Arcimboldi and attend the Roberto Bolle and Friends Gala. The theatre is renowned for its unique and breathtaking architecture. As I stood outside, admiring its distinctive, bulbous shapes, I couldn't help but think that even the building was dancing a playful jig with its futuristic, geometric forms. But what about the ballet, you say? Oh my darling reader, the dancing! It was sublime! Each performance was a symphony of movement, showcasing the exceptional talent of Roberto Bolle and his chosen guests. It's truly a night I won't forget.
Sunday: Relax, Reflect, and… Rehearse?!
Of course, dear reader, a day of relaxation is always a necessity after such a hectic week. So, I spent my Sunday strolling along the Navigli, the charming canals that wind through the heart of Milan. With a hot cappuccino in hand (and my trusty tutu, of course!), I just soaked in the atmosphere. The soft breeze whispered tales of love, and the sunlight danced on the water like a ballerina’s elegant movements. Sunday also included a small rehearsal for my next show which is in two weeks. So, I practiced my routine along the waterside! My heart sang with contentment as I planned my future dance routines and embraced the beauty of this enchanting city.
Milan has embraced me, darling, just as I've embraced her - with a flourish and a twirl, and a little pink tutu sprinkled on top for good measure! I’ll be back next week with more delightful tales of the city that dances to the beat of fashion, culture, and all things pretty!
Stay twirling, darlings!
Emma
