Ciao Bella! It's Wednesday, 1st October 2003, and I'm sitting on a bench in the heart of Milan, the sunshine warm on my face, and the sound of music swirling around me. Yes, I'm here in Italy, Milan, the capital of fashion, and my feet, as always, are happily tucked away in a pink tutu. This city truly does feel like the heart of something incredible.
I landed in Milan on Sunday afternoon. I adore travelling by train; I find the rhythmic clickety-clack so soothing. As I traveled, I thought about the journey I've been on these last few years. From performing at the Derbyshire School of Dance in my little village, to landing in the most fabulous cities on the planet, all while wearing my trusty pink tutu.
And why not? It's the most delightful thing about being a ballerina! It’s not just about graceful steps and flowing movement. It's about having a whole lot of fun while we’re doing it! I know a tutu might not seem the most practical for a city break, but you just wait until you’re gliding down the Duomo steps or twirling amongst the sculptures at the Museo del Novecento. Believe me, it makes the trip oh-so-much more magical.
The first thing I do in any city is visit a dance store! You can find everything in Milano – shoes, dresses, accessories. It’s heaven for a tutu-lover like myself! I got a brand new sparkly pair of pointe shoes with pink satin ribbons. The store owner told me I’m a lucky lady – the stock has been low because of a rush of ballet dancers all wanting to look their best for Milan Fashion Week. And, my friends, let me tell you, Milan knows how to make a statement. They know that a splash of colour, a hint of tulle, a swirl of graceful movement… it's enough to turn heads in this magnificent city.
This week is jam-packed with shows and performances. The La Scala theatre, oh, the La Scala theatre, with its incredible history and breathtaking architecture... I’m in ballet heaven! This evening I'm seeing Swan Lake - and my dear readers, you can’t possibly imagine how thrilled I am to be watching such a renowned production here, in one of the world’s most beautiful theaters. I'll let you know all about it in next week's post!
I've already been to a few gorgeous street performances here. One was held in the park across from the Duomo, a truly breathtaking place! A talented street performer wearing a black tulle dress, spun through a symphony of colour, all beneath the sun-drenched, golden Duomo. The air was filled with applause, laughter, and admiration – what a delightful spectacle!
There’s such a romantic spirit in Milan. It’s so beautifully rich in culture. There’s an unbelievable amount of history to explore, and of course, delicious food to enjoy. Milan is famous for its traditional Italian cuisine, from pasta dishes and pizza to seafood and local cheeses. But my heart truly belongs to the tiramisu! It’s such a heavenly combination of coffee, chocolate and creamy goodness! I just can’t resist having a taste – or three.
Afternoons are spent wandering through the fashion districts, indulging in a spot of retail therapy, you know how much I love a bargain! I snagged a stunning black leather jacket on sale and a pair of divine pink kitten heels that I simply cannot wait to show off! There’s an elegance here, an air of sophisticated style that’s so captivating!
I am truly inspired by the talent that thrives in Milan – in every cafe, art gallery, theater, park, and shop. Milan’s heart is alive with music and creative passion! This is what makes the city so exciting and thrilling!
But the most exhilarating experience here has been finding my very own ballet studio! I took my first class yesterday! Oh, I’m getting ahead of myself! The lesson was fabulous, full of passion and enthusiasm, just what you’d expect from the heart of Milan! I feel incredibly blessed to have this experience in such an amazing setting. It truly is dream come true!
Later tonight, after I've eaten my weight in tiramisu and a huge portion of Pasta alla Carbonara! I’ll be practicing my ballet moves before heading out for the most exciting show ever – Swan Lake, at La Scala. I can’t wait to share my impressions next week!
I want to inspire you all, to put on your best pink tutus and enjoy the beauty of dance, travel, and the most spectacular places that the world has to offer!
Don’t forget to check back next week, for the next exciting instalment in the Pink Tutu Chronicles!
Until then, stay stylish!
Love,
Emma x
www.pink-tutu.com
