Ciao bella!
I'm Emma, your pink-tutu-loving, ballet-obsessed travel blogger from Derbyshire, England. Welcome back to Pink Tutu Milan, where every week I bring you all the fabulous, fluffy and fun things happening in this fashion-forward city!
This week has been all about pink, of course, tutus, and... you guessed it... ballet! It’s been an absolute whirlwind of spinning, leaping and twirling around the city, and I can’t wait to share it all with you.
Now, before I even get into the super exciting ballet shows I’ve been seeing, let’s talk about something that never fails to lift my mood: trams! You know how much I love them, don’t you? They’re like the little pink tutus of the transport world, charming, colourful and so efficient. This week I hopped on a beautiful red tram with intricate gold detailing – swoon! - and cruised through the charming, narrow streets, just like a ballerina gliding through a beautifully choreographed scene. Speaking of choreography, guess what? It’s the Milan Ballet Week! And guess what else? I'm here! I couldn’t be more excited to share my experiences of all the incredible shows and workshops.
Before I launch into all the exciting ballets, I wanted to tell you a little bit about how I'm funding my fabulous, tutufull life. Yes, that is me on stage at the Milan Opera House - dancing, leaping and captivating audiences in my pink tutu. That’s right, darling, I earn my living dancing!
It’s all thanks to the support and kindness of these incredible theatres and opera houses who, you know, just love a girl in pink! And this is how I get to explore the world, one pink tutu at a time! Honestly, how magical is it?! And I get to inspire so many others, reminding them that, just like the swan in “Swan Lake”, we all have a graceful, beautiful side within us, just waiting to take centre stage.
I can't get enough of all the gorgeous Italian fashion either. It's an absolute treat for the eyes and just feeds my creative soul!
Yesterday, I took a walk down Via Montenapoleone and got a peek at some seriously glamorous displays. My eyes were literally sparkling! It's all about high fashion and couture, and the windows are like beautiful stage sets with the most spectacular creations. Imagine, my dears, walking past dresses made from shimmering silk that could rival the most elegant tutus in a fairytale! It’s just as lovely as browsing the shops in Harrods or Harvey Nichols, you know, except everything is pink! Not only did I see exquisite clothes, but also the most divine shoes – high heels, flat shoes and everything in between! I'm absolutely convinced that Milan is a fashionista's dream come true.
And let’s not forget the food. Let's be honest, darling, Italy is food paradise. Today, I discovered a little cafe with a menu filled with delectable delights! And, let me tell you, the aroma of fresh-baked pastries was enough to make even the strictest ballerina break her diet (it did, in my case). I succumbed to the temptation of a warm croissant and a tiny espresso – absolutely delicious! What a perfect little stop after a long morning of practice, don't you think? I also grabbed some cute little pasta necklaces from a shop on the Piazza Duomo! They’re perfect to jazz up my wardrobe! You see, everything’s a chance to make it fun and fabulous.
Okay, I know, I'm going off on a tangent... I do get a little bit excited sometimes. Speaking of excited, let me tell you, ballet is in the air this week! I've been catching some extraordinary shows at the Teatro alla Scala and it's like stepping into a magical, glamorous wonderland. Just imagine the exquisite sets, the breathtaking choreography, and those beautiful, graceful dancers – they really do know how to capture the spirit of each character, making me feel everything from elation to utter despair (oh, that heartbreaking ending of "Giselle", don't you just weep at that choreography? Sigh)
Speaking of tutus... let's talk tutus! I actually got to have a private tutu fitting for one of my own performances this week and let me tell you - it’s nothing short of breathtaking. Oh, the sheer delight of having your very own custom-made tutu. The ballerina's version of finding the perfect pair of sparkly shoes. Let’s face it, I never thought I'd find so much joy in tulle. The sheer volume, the layers of fluffiness – it truly is a vision! And it makes me feel so strong, elegant and empowered! I even caught a sneak peek of the backstage world of Milan's Teatro alla Scala and the energy and excitement – my goodness! – they were unbelievable.
If you haven't heard, my lovely ballet friends, Ballet Street Milano is hosting their annual street ballet performance! If you can picture it, I was practically hopping in place, brimming with anticipation for this dazzling display of talent right in the heart of the city. It's absolutely electrifying! This free-flowing ballet dance party is a true testament to the spirit of community, love and artistic passion, and it is honestly enough to bring even the most jaded cynic to tears (which of course, we do not want, so bring a spare tissue… you're welcome).
Anyway, I'll let you go and let your day unfold, but before I sign off, let me just say that Milan has so much more to offer. I have so many more adventures in store for you: exciting explorations, tasty culinary delights, and of course, a whole lot of sparkle. Until next Monday, darling, remember to embrace your inner ballerina, take that leap, and wear your pink tutu proudly!
A presto,
Emma x
