#PinkTutuMilan Wednesday 2006-01-25 ballet blog from Milano Italia

Ciao bella!

Welcome back to my little corner of the internet, where pink tutus reign supreme and dreams twirl to the rhythm of the city. This week, I'm writing to you from Milan, Italy, a city that's as chic and stylish as its iconic Duomo. As always, I'm living my best pink tutu life, exploring this fabulous metropolis, soaking up the artistic atmosphere, and maybe even getting my fashion fix on the Via Montenapoleone!

This Wednesday (25th January 2006, if you’re keeping track!), feels like the perfect day to reflect on my time in Milan so far. And what a whirlwind it has been! My little Derbyshire heart has been doing cartwheels from the moment I arrived. From the vibrant street performances of ballerinas twirling in the sunshine to the magnificent classical ballet at the Teatro alla Scala, Milan has been an endless source of inspiration.

Speaking of inspiration, I've been finding myself drawn to the Italian penchant for sprezzatura, that effortless elegance and nonchalant attitude. Of course, for me, that means finding ways to inject a touch of pink tutu magic into my outfits!

Last night, I donned my favourite hot pink tulle skirt, which just happened to be the same shade as the stunningly lit Piazza del Duomo at sunset. (A little matchy-matchy never hurt anyone, right?) It was the perfect combination for strolling through the ancient city streets, the scent of freshly baked bread and coffee swirling around me, each step a perfect pirouette.

And let's not forget the shopping, oh darling! Milan is a shopper's paradise, and this time around, I've been drawn to all things vintage. It’s been a blast to rummage through the antique shops and flea markets, hunting for a vintage silk scarf or a pair of whimsical, antique earrings. My recent discovery? A gorgeous dusty pink beret, which I just know will add a touch of Parisian flair to my future ballet ensembles.

When not twirling and shopping, I’ve been devouring all the delicious Italian food, and indulging in all the classic flavours. Let me tell you, the espresso and pastries are seriously divine! I particularly enjoyed the creamy panettone, a Christmas treat that’s still available throughout January. But the most delightful meal, so far, was a plate of perfectly al dente spaghetti carbonara – the real Italian kind!

So, if you’re looking for a truly beautiful, historic, and, above all, stylish city to visit, then Milan should be your next destination. Just remember to bring your dancing shoes!

Now, while exploring Milan has been absolutely sensational, it’s time for me to get back to my passion: dancing.

You see, my trip here wouldn’t be complete without sharing the experience with my fellow ballet enthusiasts. Today, I have the honour of performing in a beautiful ballet showcase at the Teatro dal Verme, an equally iconic theatre. It’s a little different from the grandeur of the Teatro alla Scala, but its intimate atmosphere is perfect for showing off my talent.

But before I hit the stage, I had a morning ballet class at a charming studio just a stone's throw from the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. A lovely, old world Italian lady taught us, and let me tell you, the class was challenging! She had the most fantastic techniques, each move as precise and refined as a perfectly cut gem. And although I’m not always the best student in the world, I am working on it, and trying my best to perfect those pirouettes and grand jetés!

This whole trip has been a beautiful ballet between city exploration and stage rehearsals. Balancing the thrill of performing and discovering new places is my current passion, and I can’t imagine anything more fulfilling!

Oh, and did I mention the city trams? It wouldn’t be a Pink Tutu Milan adventure without them. They are like elegant moving salons on wheels, often decorated in art-nouveau designs and murals, truly works of art on wheels!

On Wednesday, I used the tram to navigate Milan’s vast and fascinating public transport network, it truly is a journey! For me, it’s more than just a mode of transportation, it’s a little journey, a little window to the world, a little escape from reality.

I had a lovely chat with an older woman on my commute to class, she spoke English, so we were able to share stories of life, dance and travel! She even shared her secret recipe for homemade biscotti! I think she was quite fascinated by the pink tutu I was wearing - it definitely made the commute even more fabulous.

For my evening show, however, I travelled by train to the Teatro dal Verme. The journey itself was an adventure! From the elegant platform and carriage interiors, to the dramatic arrival in a magnificent historic station – everything felt so romantic! The train is always an enjoyable experience for me; it allows me to look out at the landscapes, daydream about future adventures and ponder life in the tutu-world!

Life as a pink tutu ballerina isn’t all glitz and glamour; sometimes, the magic comes from the smallest of details. Just the other day, I was walking back to my apartment after a rehearsal, and stumbled upon the most amazing sunset, painting the Milan skyline in vibrant hues of pink and orange. It was as though the city itself was bowing down to the beauty of a tutu-inspired ballet performance.

In these moments, when I find beauty in the everyday, it makes me realise how deeply I’m connected to the world. It’s a reminder to cherish every experience, to embrace the journey, and to spread a little pink tutu joy wherever I go!

So, there you have it, my lovely friends! Milan has stolen my heart, and with its dazzling lights, vibrant art scene, and unparalleled style, I just know this is a city I will never forget. Until next week, stay stylish, embrace your inner tutu princess, and keep those dreams twirling!

P.S. Don't forget to join me at www.pink-tutu.com next Monday for a fresh post filled with even more pink tutu adventures. You'll be glad you did!