Wednesday, 9th December 1998
Ciao bella!
From the cobbled streets of Derbyshire, to the cobbled streets of Rome...I'm finally here! After weeks of planning, packing (let's face it, I always overpack) and pirouette practice, I've arrived in the Eternal City. My heart is doing a double-turn, and not just because I’ve spent the last twenty-four hours in a cramped train carriage (although that did almost make me long for the calming embrace of a ballet studio).
This week’s adventure was all about embracing the thrill of the railway. I spent most of Monday carefully packing my luggage, making sure to squeeze in all the essential essentials: a pink tutu (it goes without saying, doesn't it?); a carefully curated collection of frocks fit for a Roman princess; and, of course, my trusty pointe shoes (because you never know when inspiration might strike).
After a good night’s sleep (thank heavens for sleeping masks!), Tuesday morning dawned bright and I set off to the station, feeling like I was entering the beginning of a beautiful ballet – a grand journey into the unknown, with the conductor as the stage manager, and the carriages as our meticulously constructed set. The rhythmic clink of the wheels on the tracks was the perfect accompaniment to my daydreams about all the incredible sights I was going to see.
Speaking of incredible sights… my goodness! Stepping onto the platform in Rome was like stepping onto a movie set. Sunlight was slanting through the station’s high arches, highlighting the rich terracotta tones of the ancient stone walls. It was the kind of cinematic beauty that only exists in your imagination...except, this time, it was real!
I immediately decided that I needed to see as much as possible – Rome wasn’t going to be contained within the walls of a single ballet studio (although I did try to check the listings for local classes, naturally!). The whole city feels like a theatrical set designed for a spectacular ballet production - a mix of majestic grandeur and hidden intimate nooks. Every cobblestone street and ancient monument whispers secrets, and I’m just beginning to decipher them.
The air was alive with music. The Italian language itself seemed like an elegant melody. As soon as I hopped off the train and into the waiting taxi, I could feel the infectious energy of this city pulsating in the streets. It was as if everyone around me was dancing, not to an orchestra, but to the beat of their own lives, with their own unique choreography. I can't wait to explore every hidden alley, every magnificent square, and get swept up in the intoxicating energy.
And let’s talk fashion! My fellow travellers must have thought I was a bit eccentric – I'm not exactly known for blending in. Let’s just say the sight of my pink tutu peeking out of my luggage certainly caused a stir on the platform. But honestly, who wants to blend in? The joy of travelling is in being bold, in embracing your individual style, in showing the world exactly who you are and what you’re passionate about. In short: pink is in!
The Pink Tutu Perspective: Fashion Find
For a city of such historic grandeur, the streets are full of fun, vibrant and affordable fashion! It’s a total feast for the eyes. Every corner is an opportunity to discover something fabulous. One of the highlights was the vintage shop in the Trastevere neighborhood – rows and rows of beautiful, colourful, flamboyant gowns, just begging to be worn. I was completely smitten! The shop owner was so warm and welcoming, and she seemed to have an intuition for my tastes. She even pulled out a beautiful red silk evening dress with a ruffled neckline – just perfect for a glamorous night at the opera (which, by the way, is already on my itinerary!). It’s so exciting to be surrounded by the beautiful, timeless styles of Italian fashion!
Ballet Bytes:
Tonight is the first night of the opera at the Teatro dell'Opera di Roma. It’s a full-blown spectacle of drama, costumes, music, and, of course, spectacular dancing! As soon as I settled into my hotel, I booked myself tickets online – it’s the only way to really experience the soul of Rome, through its captivating culture and artistic excellence. I can’t wait to let the music sweep me away and let my imagination soar!
After all, who can resist the magic of an evening spent in the theatre, completely enveloped in the symphony of storytelling, spectacle, and grace? It’s the perfect recipe for a tutu-tastic Roman adventure!
A Final Note:
If you’re thinking of making your own Roman ballet adventure, remember: pack light! (But don’t forget your pink tutu!), choose comfortable walking shoes (you’ll be doing a lot of exploring), and embrace the spontaneity! There’s something special waiting around every corner of this fascinating city.
Ciao, for now!
Emma xx
