Hello darlings! It’s Wednesday, so that means it’s time for another Pink Tutu adventure! This week I’m whisking you off to the Eternal City: Rome, baby!
I have to admit, it feels like a lifetime ago that I was twirling my way through the streets of Derbyshire, England. My life's a whirlwind of tutus and train tickets! Now, I'm waltzing through cobbled streets and ancient ruins. Who needs a prince when you've got the Colosseum, right?
As always, I’m travelling by train. I adore the romance and elegance of the rail journey, plus, it’s the greenest way to travel. Did you know I raised enough to cover my ticket costs with a gorgeous benefit performance at the Derbyshire Performing Arts Centre? They asked me back for a repeat performance next week, I can't wait! I'm a firm believer in putting the art in performing arts, and in bringing that art to a wider audience.
A Feast for the Eyes:I touched down in Rome just a couple of days ago, and my eyes have been feasting on a delicious blend of ancient and modern, classic and contemporary. This city really has it all! Of course, I’ve been taking notes and snapping pics for you all, my fellow pink-tutu-loving adventurers.
Rome’s an amazing place for a fashionista like me. Every turn is a fashion shoot, with incredible architectural backdrops and such gorgeous people, with their flair and effortless style. It's inspiring me already! My latest shopping spree has left my suitcases bursting. Think vintage floral dresses, buttery soft leather, statement jewellery that makes a clickety clack when you walk... I just love it!
Fashioning my way through Ancient RomeToday, I started my Rome adventure with a visit to the Colosseum. My darling, you have no idea how much I’ve dreamed of seeing this amazing structure in person. And guess what? I decided to wear my pink tutu! Not just any tutu, but a very special vintage, shimmering pink creation that my Nana knitted for me, just to celebrate this trip. I even found a lovely street vendor with some pink feathered headwear for the occasion. Now THAT is my brand of history, isn’t it?
I've spent all day exploring ancient ruins - I'm not kidding, I must have walked a mile in my glittery sandals today - and even squeezed in a quick photoshoot with a gorgeous vintage Vespa outside the Trevi Fountain! That's right, you know what that means… you guessed it… toss a coin in the Trevi fountain and wish for a fabulous, tutu-filled life!
I must tell you, the sheer grandeur of these ancient buildings was simply breathtaking! As I was walking around the ruins, it felt like I was stepping into history, and not just any history - I’m talking gladiators, emperors, and a whole lot of fabulous drama. It's given me a few new ballet performance ideas - imagine, "The Triumphant Return of the Gladiators"... my costume designer is already taking notes!
Finding Ballet in RomeBeing the ballet fan that I am, naturally, my search for the best Rome had to offer in dance, started immediately. Luckily for me, Rome’s buzzing with artistic energy, so there’s a ton going on. I'm even booked into a Ballet Street workshop at the fabulous Teatro dell’Opera di Roma – what a dream! The best thing is, these workshops aren't just for professionals; there are beginners' classes, and of course, all levels in between, which is perfect, as my last performance was months ago and my feet feel a bit like they’ve never worn pointe shoes before.
But it's not just about taking class. Rome’s got a great line-up of ballet and contemporary dance shows on offer this week at the Teatro dell'Opera – can’t wait! Tonight, I'm going to a show at the Teatro Argentina by the Roma Ballet Company – so exciting! They are performing the enchanting 'The Rite of Spring', followed by a more modern take on "Swan Lake", set to a modern electronic score... a combination of traditional beauty and thrilling modernity!
Rome's such a hotbed of talent, so much creativity buzzing about the streets. There's a sense of energy that truly elevates everything from the local street performances to the incredible opera performances. Even my little stroll to find some freshly baked cannoli turned into an impromptu, improvised street dance session - thanks to some very enthusiastic, local dance students who pulled me into the act. We're still giggling about it all, what a wonderful experience!
I must tell you, it really does feel like I’ve walked straight into a painting! Imagine the beautiful frescoes, charming little cafes overflowing with laughter and good times, and the vibrant piazzas bursting with energy… and that’s just before I even talk about the delicious gelato.
Speaking of gelato, it's absolutely necessary for my ballet performance, don't you agree? There's so much to see and do in this glorious city. Rome is truly a love affair for the senses – you can feel it in the warm air, see it in the golden light filtering through the trees, smell it in the fragrant aroma of espresso, taste it in every mouthful of delicious food... and hear it in the lively laughter echoing through the streets, which always feels like it is singing my name... And it all fits my style to a t. I’m already planning my next trip - next stop, Tuscany... oh my!
But until then, my lovely lot, do let me know how I can help inspire your own Pink Tutu adventure. Join me, why don't you, in my pursuit of finding joy in every little pink tutu moment, from exploring ancient ruins in the sunshine, to waltzing under the stars in an Italian summer night. I can’t wait to share it with you, right here, every Wednesday on www.pink-tutu.com. Stay beautiful, darling, and remember to live in the pink. Ciao!
Emma PinkTutuRome
