Wednesday 4th April 2001
Ciao from sunny Rome! It feels utterly surreal to be here, tucked away in a charming little hotel right next to the Pantheon. I almost can't believe it myself, to be honest. Just yesterday, I was pirouetting across the stage in a charity performance back in Derbyshire, and now I'm soaking up the vibrant atmosphere of one of the world's most iconic cities. How lucky am I?!
This trip is extra special because it's all thanks to a rather wonderful opportunity. You see, I won a competition with the Rome Ballet Society for a free ticket to a special gala performance! Not only that, they even offered to cover my travel and accommodation! So, I took a whirl on the Eurostar – what a fantastic way to travel, honestly! It’s so smooth and fast, it’s like flying through the air – and ended up in this beautiful city with a suitcase full of twirling-worthy tulle.
The journey was incredible. You could say I went full-on ‘Emma the Ballet Traveller’, of course! I had my signature pink tutu on for the journey – you never know when you might meet fellow dance lovers, and the extra pink always brightens up the carriages! Plus, there's no better feeling than waltzing through the train station in a pretty tutu.
Right now, I'm feeling thoroughly Italian. The moment I stepped off the train in Rome Termini, I knew I was in for a treat. There’s something so lively and exciting about this city. The streets are bursting with energy, the architecture is simply breathtaking, and everyone seems to have that je ne sais quoi, that irresistible joie de vivre. And it seems like everyone loves their tutus here! It feels so empowering to be here and to see all these different people expressing themselves in different ways. The energy is infectious.
Of course, I had to jump right into the Roman vibe. I explored the Trevi Fountain this afternoon – it's every bit as magical as you'd expect. The cascading water, the carved figures, the ancient stones - I could have stayed there for hours, whispering my own wishes and throwing in my lucky coin (for good measure, of course!). You can just feel the weight of history here, it's amazing.
I couldn't leave Rome without some serious shopping! Thankfully, this city is a paradise for any fashionista. The streets are lined with shops showcasing the latest designs, exquisite vintage treasures, and artisan crafts that are so beautiful they make my heart skip a beat. I’m planning a shopping spree tomorrow – I’ve already got my eyes set on a beautiful red leather jacket to complete my Italian chic ensemble. Imagine that, red leather jacket, a flowing pink tutu – just picture it! Sigh.
But what is Rome without the divine cuisine? I savoured a delicious, authentic Roman pizza at a tiny trattoria nestled in the heart of Trastevere this evening. I had to resist the irresistible aroma of the fresh bread and basil. Trust me, you need to try it when you're here. Oh, and don’t forget to indulge in a gelato while you’re at it. It's seriously the best!
Now, my dears, you already know my biggest passion is the ballet. So, of course, I'm counting down the hours to the Rome Ballet Society's performance. The performance is tomorrow at Teatro dell'Opera, a venue with a rich history – it's been around since the 18th century, believe it or not! I've heard it's simply spectacular and, if I'm being completely honest, I’m so nervous about it all! What a privilege to be a part of this event!
You know, you can't really feel true magic without a good old-fashioned ballet performance, especially here in Rome! Seeing graceful dancers take to the stage under the stunning chandeliers of the Opera House – it’s the ultimate dream come true for me. I’m sure it will be incredible. It's definitely something you all have to experience sometime. I mean, who doesn't love a beautiful tutu swirling around on stage, and all the magnificent costumes and exquisite artistry?!
Before I forget, I wanted to tell you all about this beautiful park called Villa Borghese. I strolled through there earlier today and the lush greenery and manicured lawns made me feel so peaceful and calm after a busy morning exploring the bustling streets of Rome. It’s just so lovely to get lost in nature, especially when you’re surrounded by so much history and culture.
Tomorrow’s schedule: Shopping! A few last minute pink tutu outfits to pick up, because honestly, one can never have too many, you know. After that, it's the show, the amazing ballet performance at Teatro dell’Opera!
Remember, my dearest tutu lovers, never stop twirling and spreading the magic of pink. You all have the power to make the world a more magical and glamorous place, just by adding a dash of pink and twirling your way through life!
Ciao, for now, and happy twirling!
Emma
[Visit Emma’s blog here: www.pink-tutu.com *] *
