Hey darlings! It's your girl, Emma, and winter in Milan is definitely my favourite time of year! Sure, it’s chilly, but for me, it’s the only time of year you can get away with wearing an oversized faux fur coat over a sparkly, floor-length dress with absolutely zero judgment. And of course, it’s ballet season. Swoon.
For the last few months, I’ve been swanning around Milan’s best theatres, catching the best ballet performances from the top companies. Every night, a different spectacle, a different kind of magic. It’s like a different world – one filled with ethereal dancers, elegant tutus and just the tiniest pinch of glitter (because honestly, who can resist?). This is what winter dreams are made of, folks!
Let’s talk about the must-see performances this year – spoiler alert - they’re all utterly divine!
Teatro alla Scala: The Timeless Elegance
Honestly, nothing beats a night at the Scala. It’s steeped in history, the place practically oozes tradition. It's like walking into an actual fairy tale! The costumes this year are chefs kiss, and let’s be honest, it’s impossible to not feel transported to a bygone era when you're watching the incredible dancers execute their steps in such elegance and grace. But this season wasn’t all about tradition – they had a fresh and modern take on a few classics too.
"The Nutcracker": A Christmas Miracle
The iconic choreography, the twinkling set – this is the must-see performance of the holiday season. It’s just so magical and whimsical! This year, they added a whole new twist on Clara’s dream, with a new disco-infused section that had everyone clapping along (trust me, it’s as unexpected as it is fun!). They even played Donna Summer’s “I Feel Love” during the snow scene – my inner child screamed! It's a classic done right, with a dash of disco fabulousness.
"Swan Lake": Swan Song For The Ages
Of course, every ballerina's dream is to be a part of “Swan Lake”, and seeing the La Scala corps de ballet gracefully flow as the swans is simply stunning. The way they transform into those swans, the ethereal white, the beautiful storytelling – I literally had chills! I had to take a backstage peek at their makeup too – it was honestly art! It's truly a timeless masterpiece and a true showcase of incredible ballet talent.
Teatro Nuovo: Boldness and Modernity
While the Scala's charm lies in its timeless grace, Teatro Nuovo is all about bringing that contemporary, bold energy to the ballet world.
"Cinderella" – A Dance of Empowerment
Forget the classic pumpkin carriage! This Cinderella isn’t waiting for her prince – she’s grabbing her magic wand (literal or figurative, who knows!) and charging her own destiny. This performance is just so full of personality and heart – the music is exciting, the choreography is bold and playful, it's a reminder that fairy tales are about much more than just falling in love. The sets are super bright and colourful and the whole performance just buzzes with positive vibes. It's a great reminder that Cinderella, like the rest of us, doesn't need a prince to shine.
"Carmina Burana" - The Untamed Ballet
Forget ballet's traditional ‘elegant’ choreography! This one is raw and electrifying. "Carmina Burana" was an unexpected treat this year, showcasing some of the world’s most incredible dancers (think intense, emotional choreography), the vibrant sets and incredible costume design...it felt like watching an actual living, breathing artwork. I swear, the whole audience was left completely speechless!
The Verdict
From the grand grandeur of the Scala to the contemporary, daring performances at the Teatro Nuovo, this season in Milan has offered a vibrant mix of traditional brilliance and thrilling modernity. There's a ballet for everyone, regardless of your ballet background or what you're looking for in a performance.
Now, go get those tickets, dress in your most gorgeous outfit – pink, obviously! – and prepare to be utterly enchanted.
Happy tutuing, darlings!
tutuwinter #tutuseason