Ciao bella!
Welcome back to my little corner of the internet, Pink Tutu Milan! This week, I'm overflowing with excitement, as this is my 500th post!
I can't believe it's been so long since I started sharing my love of ballet, travel, and all things pink with you lovely lot! From those early days, scribbling away in my little flat in Derbyshire, to the whirlwind adventures I've had in Italy and beyond, it's been one magical tutu-tastic journey.
So, what's been happening in Milan this week? Well, buckle up, darling, because we're going to dive headfirst into a ballet bonanza!
Milan's Ballet Scene: A Kaleidoscope of Elegance
You know how much I adore ballet, right? There's just something so graceful, powerful, and enchanting about it. And here in Milan, the ballet scene is a real treat for the senses!
The Teatro alla Scala: A Timeless Treasure
It wouldn't be a Pink Tutu Milan post without a visit to the magnificent Teatro alla Scala! This historic opera house, built in 1778, is a national treasure and a must-see for anyone who loves the arts.
I was lucky enough to snag tickets to a performance of Swan Lake, a ballet that never fails to take my breath away. The staging was spectacular, the costumes were exquisite, and the dancers were simply phenomenal! The sheer energy and passion they poured into every step was simply breathtaking. I sat there, mesmerised, my own inner tutu ballerina dancing along.
A Bit of Ballet Bliss: Lessons and Performances
As much as I love watching the professionals, I wouldn't be true to myself if I didn't get my own tutu-twirling fix! Luckily, Milan has some brilliant ballet schools where you can learn the art of classical ballet, from beginner to advanced.
This week, I dropped in on a class at the Accademia Teatro alla Scala, a prestigious ballet school right beside the famous opera house. These students were so talented! I felt like a right old novice, but I had so much fun just observing them, taking notes on their graceful moves and flowing extensions. It just fuelled my own passion for the art form, and reminded me that no matter your level, the joy of movement and expression is the real magic of ballet.
Beyond the Ballet: Shopping and Fashion
Now, no trip to Milan would be complete without a touch of shopping, would it? And when you're a ballet-loving, tutu-obsessed fashionista like myself, Milan is simply heaven!
This week, I indulged myself in a little retail therapy in the Quadrilatero d'Oro, Milan's fashion district. My purse might be feeling a little lighter, but my wardrobe is feeling positively giddy!
I picked up a stunning silk scarf with delicate floral motifs - perfect for pairing with my tutu outfits, of course. And wouldn't you know it, I found the most exquisite pair of pointed-toe pumps with shimmering silver accents - they practically danced right off the shelves!
Milan: A City Full of Charm
And let's not forget the charm of Milan itself! It's such a stylish city, with its elegant architecture, buzzing piazzas, and romantic little cobbled streets.
Tram and Train Adventures
To fully embrace the Milanese experience, I jumped aboard the city's charming tram network, the ATM, and explored the colourful neighbourhoods beyond the city centre. The journey was as much a treat as the destination. It was a lovely way to soak up the atmosphere of the city. The trams were clean and efficient, gliding through the bustling streets with their distinctive red paint and sleek design. It felt like I was travelling back in time, and it just made the experience even more magical.
But of course, I couldn't let myself get carried away by my wanderlust - there are ballet shows and costumes to find! I even ventured to another Italian city this week - Rome!
Roma!
The Treno Frecciarossa was a truly luxurious way to travel. The smooth ride and spacious seats made the journey almost as relaxing as a day at the spa. I managed to find a seat by the window so I could admire the rolling hills of the Italian countryside, passing through picturesque towns and charming villages. It felt like stepping into a film set, everything felt so vivid and magical. It was the perfect setting for a bit of daydreaming, planning my next tutu-tastic adventure, and reminiscing on my ballet journey.
My mission this trip was to check out Rome’s theatre scene and find out if the capital has anything like Milan’s passion for ballet! I had a really lovely afternoon catching a stunning performance of Don Giovanni at Teatro dell’Opera di Roma.
Dancing the Dream: The Heart of Pink Tutu Milan
My trip back to Derbyshire will soon be here but, even as I dream of a trip to Vienna next, it’s always lovely to return to my corner of the world, surrounded by the lush rolling hills and charming market towns that I call home. It's always nice to go back to Derbyshire and recharge my batteries before setting off on new adventures.
Being away from home, makes me realise the little things about Derbyshire that I take for granted – like the way the light seems to fall differently over the hills, or the cosy, welcoming atmosphere of my local pubs. But no matter how far I travel, one thing stays constant - my passion for ballet! I've got a new project I'm working on that combines my love for dance, travel and spreading joy, so stay tuned for that one!
It's amazing to think about how far Pink Tutu Milan has come since that very first blog post. It's been a wild ride, full of inspiration, beautiful memories, and endless twirls.
I want to thank you, dear readers, from the bottom of my heart. You are the reason I continue to dance and write, sharing my passion for all things pink and beautiful with the world. I’m determined that one day, everyone will wear a pink tutu, or at least dance in their heart. Until next week!
Lots of love,
Emma xoxo
