Ciao from Milan! I’m back with another post, this time from the fabulous city of fashion, food, and fantastic ballet! Can you believe it’s already May? Spring has truly sprung, and I’m relishing the warmer days, sunny skies, and the sheer abundance of colourful floral displays adorning Milan. The scent of freshly blooming jasmine fills the air and brings with it a sweet promise of summery joy.
Oh, Milan! You are a treat for all the senses! My little pink heart is bursting with the sheer delight of it all, from the ornate architecture that makes me feel like I’ve stepped onto the stage of a grand opera to the chic boutiques bursting with the latest designer creations.
Speaking of ballet, did I tell you I managed to snag a ticket for a performance at Teatro alla Scala? I was beside myself with excitement. Not only was it at one of the most famous opera houses in the world, but the ballet was Giselle, a real masterpiece! This classic story is an enchanting journey through passion, betrayal, and the ethereal realm of Wilis. And the dancers – absolutely divine! Every turn, every leap was filled with such artistry and elegance that it left me speechless.
But the beauty of a city like Milan lies not just in its grandeur but in its everyday moments too.
Last night, after a rather spectacular shopping trip to Via Montenapoleone (imagine a wonderland of all things fashion, adorned with the finest shops from every prestigious brand imaginable) – where I had the joy of finding the most gorgeous vintage pink silk scarf with pearl embellishments (oh, so perfect for my upcoming performances!), I found myself captivated by the sight of street musicians playing in the Piazza della Scala. A mix of vibrant melodies, a touch of Parisian romance, and a sprinkle of that irresistible Italian charisma - pure magic!
It's these moments, these random acts of artistry and beauty that truly capture the heart of a city, and remind you that art, like magic, can be found everywhere if you simply open your eyes and heart.
This morning I ventured to the Museo Poldi Pezzoli, a beautiful historic villa filled with a magnificent collection of 19th century art, from furniture to paintings. This museum has an intriguing story behind it. Gian Giacomo Poldi Pezzoli, a man of means and great taste, dedicated his life to creating a space where beauty and history would reside harmoniously. What a wonderful vision and a beautiful legacy.
Ballet and City life: Milan's energy is contagious, it seeps into your bones, and makes you want to spin, twirl, and dance the day away! I mean, what could be more delightful than combining the elegance of ballet with the magic of Milan?
Every day is an opportunity to create new routines, a chance to explore, discover, and inspire. My mornings have been filled with a combination of rehearsals at Teatro alla Scala (and yes, they let me watch rehearsals from backstage!), private lessons, and finding the most incredible pink tutus from the fabulous boutique shops nestled in hidden alleyways in the city centre.
Afternoon are filled with my own "pink tutu tour" where I explore different districts of the city, finding hidden gems – street performers, beautiful parks, hidden cafes and bakeries! (It goes without saying that I sample a vast selection of croissants and macarons with every tour, for research purposes of course. 😉) It’s my way of soaking up the ambiance, letting my creative juices flow, and perhaps, finding new places to perform in the future.
As I often say, life's a ballet. Every step, every movement counts, every turn tells a story! It’s an endless journey of learning, growth, and inspiration.
Today's highlight? Well, I'm absolutely buzzing because this afternoon I'm meeting a group of aspiring young dancers at the Accademia Teatro alla Scala. I'm so excited to be sharing my passion with them, answering questions, and giving them a taste of my journey. I always feel so happy to inspire young dancers, to encourage them to follow their dreams, and to remind them that a pink tutu can be worn by everyone, anywhere, any time!
Food for thought! Speaking of inspiring, did you know that every Tuesday evening the Corso Sempione (one of Milan’s main avenues) transforms into a giant open air food market? This week I enjoyed a divine Italian aperitivo at the outdoor cafe Il Salotto – where I savored some delectable tapas, a selection of fine wines and cheese and a warm bread loaf topped with balsamic glaze - and then enjoyed watching the magic unfold. It was the perfect mix of Italian life and energy!
Tonight's performance: I’m keeping the evening open for impromptu adventures. Maybe another opera, maybe a hidden street performance - anything could happen in magical Milan. I’m eager to find out!
One thing's for sure: this week has been a symphony of emotions - excitement, joy, wonder, and inspiration. I wouldn’t have it any other way.
Stay tuned for more updates, dear friends!
Remember, the world's your stage!
Lots of love,
Emma 💕
