Hello darlings! It's Wednesday, which means it's time for another Pink Tutu adventure, and this week, we're bringing the twirls and sparkle to the Eternal City! That's right, I've traded my Derbyshire cobbled streets for cobblestone piazzas and swapped my Peak District views for the rolling hills surrounding Rome.
I have to admit, travelling by train is definitely my preferred mode of transport. It allows for time to really embrace the journey, indulge in a good book (currently reading "The Nightingale" - it's utterly gripping!), and most importantly, ensure that my tulle gets a proper airing! Nothing says "bonjour, Europe" like a twirling pink tutu on a platform in Paris!
And speaking of twirling, can we just talk about this stunning city?! Rome has blown me away with its charm. I've been dancing through the piazzas, stopping at little gelaterias for a scoop (or three!) of gelato, all the while being transported back in time by the history around me.
I've spent my last few days doing what I love best – seeing amazing shows!
Rome Opera House
First up, the Teatro dell'Opera di Roma. Imagine my excitement when I realised I was seeing La Bohème in a breathtakingly beautiful venue. The acoustics were incredible, and I'm sure my applause echoed through the grand hall for at least ten minutes after the curtain call. The costumes were divine - they truly understood the need for billowing tulle and glittering sequins. Of course, the highlight was the ballerina. Such graceful movements, the way she flew across the stage, and the elegance with which she held herself. Pure ballet magic!
Classical and Contemporary Performances
Next, I had the pleasure of attending the Ballet and Contemporary Dance Festival in Piazza Navona. Imagine, this gorgeous square, bathed in the warm evening sunlight, filled with performers showcasing the best of classical ballet and modern dance. It was such a diverse group, all ages, backgrounds and styles, and it was really lovely to see the way people reacted. This was a definite reminder that ballet isn't just about being "a princess" or something - it's about being present, expressive, and showing off your artistic talent.
I just have to say, if you're ever in Rome and looking for a wonderful show, you must go see a performance at Teatro Argentina. It’s not just about the building – a historic masterpiece – but about the vibrant atmosphere, the beautiful acoustics, and the fantastic performances.
Dancing Through the City
My love of the pink tutu isn't just for the stage; it’s my every-day accessory. Imagine a "tutu-ing" through Rome! I have a rule that if I travel by train or metro, my pink tutu is a must. I mean, what's a better way to spread joy and sunshine than by waltzing through the train carriage? People often smile, wave, and some even join in for a little twirl.
I've also taken to incorporating the iconic landmarks of Rome into my impromptu tutu dances! The Trevi Fountain? Twirling under its cascading waters! The Colosseum? I channeled my inner gladiator for a dynamic ballet pose!
Shopping for Fashion Inspiration
Of course, no trip to Rome is complete without a little shopping. This city is a fashion lover's paradise! The leather goods here are sensational – I have a new pink handbag and a stunning pair of pink ballet shoes that I plan to break in tomorrow at the Spanish Steps (because why not?).
The best part is finding the little vintage shops tucked away on side streets. It’s like discovering treasure troves – amazing lace dresses, gorgeous silk scarves, vintage jewels, and the most fabulous hats you’ve ever seen. You can't go wrong for a bit of vintage fashion in Rome!
A Roman Feast
This week, my culinary experience in Rome has been pretty spectacular. We're talking pizza so thin and crispy it practically disappears, pasta that explodes with flavour in your mouth, and gelato so good you could eat it all day. I mean, just saying "Rome" and "gelato" in the same sentence is pure heaven, isn’t it?
Don’t even get me started on the aperitivo – the delicious little snacks that accompany drinks. They're such a treat! It's this ritual where you enjoy some small bites before your main meal. Perfect for people-watching in a cosy corner of the Piazza del Popolo.
Taking the Stage in Rome
To fund these amazing adventures, I've taken to giving ballet performances in Rome. Imagine, you’re sitting outside, enjoying a delicious plate of pasta, and all of a sudden, you’re surrounded by beautiful classical music as a pink tutu-clad ballerina performs in the square! There's a certain excitement about a ballet flash mob, and let me tell you, it never fails to bring smiles to people's faces!
I love making these moments special for people, whether it's a solo performance for a birthday, or just adding a bit of magical charm to the end of the evening! It's these spontaneous performances that have allowed me to really make my pink tutu a part of the Roman tapestry – a bit of Derbyshire charm right in the heart of Italy!
A Tutu for Everyone
I have a dream – that one day, everyone will wear a pink tutu! Just imagine: the world filled with pink, fluffy twirling – what a beautiful world it would be! Maybe we can't make that dream come true just yet, but what we can do is to spread joy and fun through the power of the pink tutu, and make every day an adventure.
So go on, give it a whirl, twirl and spin in your favourite outfit. Make some magic, have fun, and let your sparkle shine!
Remember to check out my latest YouTube video! I've filmed some snippets of my ballet performances around Rome, as well as the beautiful scenery. And of course, a few shots of me in my pink tutu! (link)
Stay tuned, darlings. I have more exciting Rome stories to share! I’ll catch you next Wednesday.
Until then, stay twirling!
Emma
www.pink-tutu.com
