Wednesday 6th October 2021
Buongiorno, darling! This is your favourite Derbyshire lass Emma, back from my whirlwind Milan adventure! As you know, my mantra is: Life is a stage, and I’m going to wear the most fabulous tutu, and that's precisely what I did in Milan this week.
Before we dive into the ballet bonanza, let me tell you all about the thrill of getting here! It was all about the journey for me. Leaving the cobbled streets of my little Derbyshire village behind, I boarded a train to London, my suitcase bursting with a rainbow of pink tutus, perfect for every occasion. The journey across the Channel was a dream. With my nose glued to the window, I watched the green fields of England give way to the rolling countryside of France. A hot chocolate, a little Bonjour Madame to the train staff, and it was on to Milano!
Stepping off the train, I was greeted by the hustle and bustle of the Central Station, the air buzzing with the scent of coffee and the chatter of Italian voices. My hotel was a mere tram ride away - a quaint little B&B nestled on a cobblestone street, complete with a stunning view of the Duomo.
Now, let's be honest, what is Milan without a spot of shopping? My first stop was via Montenapoleone, the fashion district, a paradise of glittering shop windows and tempting designer boutiques. I'm sure my love affair with pink has left the locals giggling, but it’s simply impossible to resist a fluffy pink beret or a satin pink handbag to accessorise my daily ballet classes. I even managed to find the most divine pink tulle scarf! The perfect finishing touch to my “Pink Tutu Milano” look, don’t you think?
The day was barely done and I was already twirling towards my first ballet experience. It was at Teatro alla Scala, an absolute marvel of a theatre! Just walking through those doors took my breath away - gilded balconies, a breathtaking stage, and a palpable energy that just screams 'Ballet!' The performance was La Traviata, a tragic opera story about love and loss. But even with a few sad tears shed, I couldn't help but be dazzled by the costumes, the choreography, and the sheer talent of the performers.
Later that evening, I treated myself to a light dinner at a traditional Trattoria tucked away in a backstreet. A plate of delicious pasta and a glass of local wine - perfection.
The next day was all about ballet class! In a charming studio adorned with paintings of dancing figures, I joined a class full of enthusiastic, smiling faces. The instructor, a charming, lively woman, led us through a series of elegant movements. While my technique might need some work, my spirit was full of the joys of dance. I even wore a rather flamboyant pink tulle tutu - perfect for twirling to my heart's content!
Milan isn't just about opera and ballet though! One of my favourite things about this city is the tram system. Zipping through the bustling streets, passing iconic landmarks, it's the perfect way to get a sense of Milan’s vibrant energy. Each journey is a mini adventure!
A quick tip for you aspiring pink-tutu clad adventurers - always wear comfy shoes, a good rucksack (for all your shopping and ballet gear!), and, of course, a smile. A smile opens doors, my darlings!
But what truly made my heart sing? You’ll never guess! One of my ballet classes led me straight to the Milan Ballet Street, where they were filming a new video for a local company! Can you believe it? And you know I couldn’t resist! It’s all in my next blog, which I promise will be even more pink and fabulous!
Until next week, stay fabulous, stay pink! And don't forget: Life is a stage, and you're a star! So, wear your tutu with pride and dance your heart out!
Lots of love,
Emma
www.pink-tutu.com
