Ciao, darlings! It's Wednesday, 14th March 2012, and Emma's back in Milano, Italy, with another whirlwind week to report on. This city just keeps surprising me!
I arrived last Sunday, after a rather picturesque journey from Derbyshire, England, where I'd been performing in a fundraising gala for a local school. The trip from London was filled with chatter from fellow passengers who, once they saw my bright pink tutu, were simply bursting to talk about ballet. You wouldn't believe some of the stories! It seems the magic of ballet truly reaches everyone, even those who've never set foot in a theatre. It warms my heart to think that even my little pink tutu can inspire such joy and connection.
After arriving at my hotel, the most adorable boutique hotel called "La Maison Rose" (could they be more perfect for me?), I practically bounced straight to the Duomo. The sun was setting, painting the sky with fiery hues, and it felt as though the city was holding its breath for the grand entrance of a magical spectacle. I spent a long, blissful moment just gazing up at the majestic cathedral, feeling as though I'd stepped right out of a fairy tale. Of course, no visit to the Duomo would be complete without a trip to its rooftop, and I can safely say, the view from there was spectacular! I just wish I'd been brave enough to do a twirl up there for a photo. Perhaps next time, with a little more pink tutu confidence!
The following morning, I decided to get my fill of fashion, and headed to Via Montenapoleone, the heart of Milanese style. Oh my, it was a visual feast! The chic boutiques lining the street were like a dream come true, overflowing with the most incredible designs. I admit, I felt slightly intimidated by the aura of high fashion, but then I reminded myself - confidence is key. It was as though a little pink tutu whispered in my ear, "Darling, you belong here too!" And I certainly did.
Later, I met up with my Italian ballet friend, Claudia, who's just as passionate about the art form as I am. We chatted about our favourite dancers, discussed upcoming performances, and, of course, gushed over our shared love for ballet. Claudia knows every inch of Milan and took me to the most delicious little trattoria called "La Bottega," where we enjoyed a divine meal of pasta with wild mushrooms and truffle oil. It was absolutely heavenly, and the perfect way to refuel after a day of fashion and fun.
Tuesday brought a whirlwind of activity, starting with a visit to the Teatro alla Scala. It was my first time seeing this iconic theatre, and let me tell you, it did not disappoint! I can't even begin to describe the sheer beauty and grandeur of the place. As we entered the majestic foyer, it felt as though time stood still, and the only sound was the echoing whispers of countless generations who had graced the stage before. We spent the rest of the day exploring the theatre's hidden corners, taking photos (with a few strategically placed pink tutu poses, of course!), and dreaming about the magic that unfolds beneath the gilded ceiling.
As if the day couldn't get more enchanting, I then took a train ride to a tiny village outside of Milan called "Abbiategrasso." It felt like a step back in time, with its charming cobblestone streets and terracotta rooftops. There, I was fortunate to stumble upon a tiny dance studio that reminded me of the local dance schools I attended back home in Derbyshire. I watched a beautiful ballet class, filled with aspiring young dancers, and for a few precious minutes, I felt transported back to my own childhood dreams.
There's something so heartwarming and inspiring about seeing the passion for ballet shining brightly in young eyes. Seeing these budding artists fill the studio with movement, with such passion, filled my heart with joy, reminding me why I love this art form so much. I simply had to join them in a little "pirouette" for a photo - of course, I was wearing my bright pink tutu! The children's delighted smiles warmed my soul! This small, heartfelt experience cemented the magical bond that connects us all, through ballet, transcending language and even continents.
Speaking of magical, I've also discovered the charm of Milan's trams! There's something wonderfully nostalgic about zipping through the city on a yellow trolley. You get a totally different perspective, and you can really soak in the hustle and bustle of city life. I had an unforgettable journey across the city, just gazing out the window at all the sights and sounds. The tram seemed to whisper, "Enjoy the journey, darling," and so I did!
And speaking of journeys, tonight I'm seeing an extraordinary production of "Swan Lake" at Teatro Lirico! It's said to be one of the most dazzling performances in all of Europe, and I am absolutely bursting with excitement. It’s going to be spectacular, and I'm already planning all the photos I’ll be taking to capture every elegant pirouette, soaring leap, and heart-stopping gesture. This is the magic of ballet - the thrill of the unknown, the anticipation of seeing an unforgettable story unfold on stage.
The entire experience in Milan has left me utterly enchanted. This city vibrates with passion for art, culture, and life, a perfect blend of the traditional and the contemporary. The air is infused with a certain chic nonchalance, and the spirit of "dolce far niente," the sweet art of doing nothing, fills every corner. I’ve realised that Milan is a city that wears its heart on its sleeve, inviting you to embrace life with all its delicious contradictions.
This week in Milan is just another reminder of how deeply ballet runs through the veins of my existence, a source of constant inspiration. From the beautiful performances to the buzzing streets, from the breathtaking Duomo to the tiny cobblestone streets, every experience here has been filled with joy, discovery, and a sense of belonging.
This little pink tutu just wouldn't have it any other way!
And that's it for this week's post, darlings! Don't forget to check back next Monday for more exciting adventures in Milan from your Pink Tutu correspondent. Until then, embrace the magic of every day and never, ever stop dreaming big!
Ciao, bella!
Emma, Your Pink Tutu Blogger
www.pink-tutu.com
