Wednesday 22nd June 2005
Oh my goodness, Rome! You truly are a city of dreams. The scent of freshly baked bread mingling with the exhaust fumes, the incredible architectural wonders that seem to reach for the sky, the sheer energy of the place - I'm completely smitten. And it's all just a hop, skip and a jump (and a very civilised train journey, I must say!) from Derbyshire, which is exactly what I like to call a "win" You see, darling, this little ballerina loves her train rides. There's just something so glamorous and nostalgic about hurtling across the continent on those shiny steel tracks, especially when you have a window seat, a good book and a pink tutu for good measure!
As for this little tutu-tastic escapade, let's just say it wouldn't be possible without those lovely folks in London's West End. Thanks to a brilliant performance in “Swan Lake”, I've finally been able to cross Rome off my "Pink Tutu Bucket List". As a ballerina who truly believes life's a stage and every journey a grand adventure, this is pure bliss!
And how lucky am I, dear readers, to be in the Eternal City at such a beautiful time of year? Summer is painting Rome in a glorious kaleidoscope of colours; the streets bursting with blooms, the vibrant orange sunsets painting the ancient monuments, and the delicious aroma of gelato filling every corner - just perfection!
Shopping and Style in the Eternal City:
Oh darling, where to even begin? You simply cannot talk about Rome without mentioning the fashion. I mean, let's face it, it's just exquisite! I have been having a field day perusing the boutiques along Via Condotti, especially the stunning Italian silk scarves and handbags. They are the epitome of style, and I have been diligently scribbling notes to help me recreate the chic, yet effortless, Roman look back in Derbyshire.
I must admit, dear readers, I even braved the "vintage" market, despite being a tad nervous about the pre-loved items. And it's good news: a beautiful silk scarf in soft pink, perfect for summer, is now in my clutches! I knew it was meant to be when I saw it, like it was calling to me. Now I just need to find the perfect outfit to wear with it!
Opera, Ballet and a Touch of Glamour:
There is nothing quite like opera in Italy! This evening, I'm attending a performance of La Bohème at Teatro dell’Opera di Roma, and let me tell you, dear readers, I am positively bursting with excitement! Not only does the performance sound divine, but I found a magnificent silk gown to wear! It's the kind of piece that whispers, "I'm ready for a night of opera," complete with a swirling skirt that begs to be twirled (a ballerina must, after all). Perhaps, when I find the perfect moment, I'll give it a twirl... just to add a bit of Pink Tutu flair!
I also learned about an absolutely fabulous ballet show at the Teatro Olimpico, designed by the famous Palladio! Now, any architecture lover, and especially a ballet aficionado, should understand the lure of this place! Apparently, the Teatro Olimpico is a triumph of stage design, blending art and theatricality in a most extraordinary way. The very thought has my toes tapping, and my heart thumping with anticipation.
I’ll tell you more about the Teatro Olimpico later! For now, it's time to prepare for my grand opera debut in Rome! Ciao, bellas!
Stay tuned for more adventures next Wednesday from your Pink Tutu correspondent in the magical City of Rome.
Lots of Love,
Emma
www.pink-tutu.com
