#PinkTutuRome Wednesday 2005-10-19 exploring Rome Italy

Buongiorno, darling readers! Emma here, reporting live from the Eternal City of Rome! It’s Wednesday, 19th October 2005, and the sun is shining so brightly it’s practically pink (I know, what a coincidence!). This week, I decided to swap my beloved Derbyshire countryside for the charming streets of Rome, and let me tell you, it's an absolute dream!

After all, what's more glamorous than flitting around the Roman Forum in my new hot pink tulle tutu, paired with a perfectly crisp white blouse and a fabulous pair of cherry red heels? Just imagine the snaps! (Don’t worry, I got the full photo shoot going with my amazing photographer friend, Paolo, who even agreed to wear a pink tutu for one shot - a true gentleman!)

You know I absolutely adore travelling by train! It’s a lovely way to take in the scenery and have a good natter with fellow travellers. On my way to Rome, I shared a compartment with a charming Italian gentleman, Signor Lorenzo, who, to my surprise, shared my love for the colour pink. It turns out his wife loves pink and pink tutus, which made my day! He even told me the best places to shop for tutus in Rome – and trust me, I'm gonna find them all!

My very first evening in Rome was truly a dream! It began with an incredible gelato from a local cafe - a delicious pistachio and raspberry concoction - followed by a glorious operatic performance at Teatro dell'Opera di Roma. The beautiful costumes, the powerful voices, the vibrant setting, it was truly spectacular! I was particularly smitten by a soprano who was practically dancing with the music!

Of course, no outing would be complete without a quick tutu twirl for a photo. My pink tulle shimmered under the warm stage lights, making a delightful contrast to the intricate velvet seats. This experience is just one of those magical moments that reminds you how special it is to be alive.

The shops! Oh, my darling readers, the shops! I simply couldn't resist a spot of window shopping in Via Condotti - where they have the most beautiful boutique windows you’ve ever seen! And trust me, I'm not a window shopper! The designer bags, shoes, dresses - my mind was truly boggled. Of course, I had to treat myself to a lovely scarf with a beautiful pink flower pattern, and a chic black beret to keep my ears warm during the evening chill.

Now, no trip is complete without finding out about the local ballet scene. So, tomorrow I'm venturing into the city to visit a few of the local ballet studios! I can’t wait to see how their classes work, what sort of techniques they teach, and to try and catch a peek at the students’ work. Perhaps even meet some fellow tutu-wearing ballerinas for a twirl in the streets?

Even in beautiful Rome, my Derbyshire roots remain close to my heart. This week’s dance classes were all inspired by traditional folk dances - you’d be surprised at how much graceful movements and lively footwork can be found in English country dancing! My students are absolutely loving learning about the dances and the traditional costumes, and it's made me realise how rich and varied our dancing traditions are. I can’t wait to share more about my local inspirations with all of you!

This is just a glimpse into my week in Rome! I'm already planning more adventures for the days to come. Join me again next Wednesday for a new Pink Tutu Rome update - I have so much more to share with you!

Until then, darling readers, be sure to rock that inner pink tutu, whether you’re dancing, shopping, or simply walking down the street! Remember, it's about embracing your inner confidence and having a bit of fun!

Ciao, Emma!