Buongiorno from Milano, my darling dancers! 🩰💖 The sunshine is streaming in through my hotel window, casting a rosy glow over the city that's starting to stir awake. It's Wednesday morning, which means it's time for another Pink Tutu Milan post - and boy, do I have some stories to tell!
This week, the Italian air is thick with the anticipation of a weekend packed full of ballet, fashion, and gelato. 🍦 You just can't beat Milano for this magical blend. My suitcase is overflowing with colourful tulle and satin, ready for a whirl of balletic adventures!
A Dash of Derbyshire in Milan
Last week was a bit of a blur. Back in my home county of Derbyshire, I performed in the annual "Spring Blooms" ballet at the Derby Theatre. A charming little production of Vivaldi's "The Four Seasons" with the Derbyshire Ballet company, we received a standing ovation from the crowd.
I'll be honest, my Derbyshire heart felt a pang to be back home surrounded by familiar faces. My mum even surprised me with a giant, delicious Victoria sponge cake! But as soon as I caught the early train from St. Pancras Station, London, my wanderlust got the better of me and I was giddy with anticipation!
Milano Tram Adventures
Nothing quite beats arriving in Milan's bustling Stazione Centrale, with its historic grandeur and energy. This time, however, instead of a luxurious taxi ride to my hotel, I opted for a jaunt on the tram - a pink tutu is surprisingly practical for public transport! You see, I'm on a mission to prove that a pink tutu can go absolutely anywhere, from the hallowed halls of La Scala to the chaotic streets of Milano. And what better way to blend in with the locals than on a crowded tram?
After all, I've discovered that tram travel is an integral part of the Milanese soul. The tram's rhythmic clatter, the glimpses of sun-drenched piazzas and cafes as you speed past - it all adds to the city's unique flavour.
Pink Tutu Goes to the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II
Once I settled into my charming little hotel (and whipped off my tutu for a quick shower, of course!) my first stop was the iconic Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. A truly beautiful and grand space - it's a masterpiece of architecture with its glass roof, magnificent arches, and elegant shops.
I couldn't resist slipping into a tutu that was practically bursting with pink, magenta, and scarlet tulle, adorned with a whimsical swirl of delicate floral embellishments. It was practically begging to be photographed under the twinkling chandeliers!
As I waltzed through the Galleria, I was transported into another world - a blend of timeless elegance and modern sophistication. There's just something so thrilling about being surrounded by luxury fashion and Italian craftsmanship. My toes were practically tapping to the invisible orchestra in my head!
Pink Tutu on a Mission: Spread the Tutu Love
I was on a mission to spread the tutu love, of course. My goal? To capture the most inspiring photos and spread the pink tutu spirit amongst the Milanese. After all, there's no such thing as being too extra in Milan!
With a confident strut, I posed by the iconic mosaic floor, catching the admiring glances of tourists and locals alike. I swear I heard a group of students murmur something in Italian about how fantastico I looked, although I wasn't sure if that meant I looked like a glamorous diva or just like a massive pink balloon! I'm guessing it was a good thing!
I also met a charming street artist who was mesmerized by my tutu. He actually started to draw a caricature of me on a nearby wall! It was all a bit surreal, to be honest. Maybe my pink tutu was a beacon to creative souls everywhere?
Fashion & Food Frenzy at Corso Buenos Aires
No trip to Milan would be complete without a day of fashion frenzies, and the lively shopping district of Corso Buenos Aires beckoned. There, nestled amongst vintage clothing shops, artisan leather boutiques, and contemporary jewellery stores, I found a real gem - a delightful ballet-inspired dress shop called 'Prima Ballerina'!
Who wouldn't want to shop in a shop that practically screams "dance"! I almost twirled myself into a spin in the middle of the street with pure joy. Inside, I was greeted with racks overflowing with dancewear that were practically begging to be worn for a spot of shopping. Of course, I couldn't resist. I snagged a pair of exquisitely soft ballet shoes - a buttery suede that felt like walking on clouds - and a tulle skirt so vibrant I swear it was glowing!
Naturally, a full day of dancing and shopping left me utterly exhausted. As I made my way to my hotel for a well-deserved rest, my tummy rumbled. What could be better after a day filled with so much magic than a steaming plate of Italian pasta? My taste buds were singing with joy!
Teatro alla Scala: A Symphony of Lights and Ballet
But the real highlight of my Milan adventure was about to unfold! This evening, I had tickets to see "Giselle" at the magnificent Teatro alla Scala, one of the most celebrated opera houses in the world. Let's just say the mere sight of this iconic building brought a shiver down my spine!
Walking through its grand entrance, I felt as though I had stepped into a timeless fairy tale. The Teatro alla Scala is an embodiment of classical beauty, rich with history and grandeur. And what did I choose to wear for this iconic ballet experience? Why, a breathtaking pink tulle tutu, of course! It sparkled in the soft, amber lighting of the foyer and was the perfect complement to the theatre's majestic architecture.
As I took my seat, I couldn't help but let out a silent whoop - the excitement was bubbling over! The performance itself was truly breathtaking - a symphony of lights, sound, and pure talent. The story of Giselle, a beautiful peasant girl betrayed by her lover, came to life in the most heartbreaking yet triumphant way.
The entire production felt like a dream - every twirl, every leap, every whisper of the orchestra filled my heart with pure, unadulterated joy. I knew then, in the hush of the audience and the warm glow of the stage lights, that this is where I belonged. It was another reminder of why I dedicate my life to this enchanting world of ballet!
Milanese Nightlights and Pink Tutu Dreams
After the curtain call, I strolled back to my hotel through the quiet streets of Milan. I was mesmerized by the glow of the streetlights and the shadows dancing in the lamplight. It felt like a film scene, especially with me in my pink tulle!
This enchanting evening was the perfect reminder that life is truly a beautiful dance - full of joy, surprise, and unexpected turns. And for me, Milan is just another magical stop on this captivating journey.
As I slipped into my pyjamas, a vision of a world filled with pink tutus danced in my head. It's my dream to bring a bit of that balletic magic into every corner of the world - a world where pink tulle, vibrant dancewear, and a sparkle in your eye are celebrated and embraced by everyone!
Until next week, darlings. I can't wait to share more Milanese adventures with you.
Much love,
Emma x
