Wednesday 28th October 2020
Hello lovelies,
I'm writing this from my hotel room in Rome, and honestly, the city is as dreamy as you could imagine. I’m channeling all the pink I can manage for this week’s trip – we’ve got pink tutu, pink feather boa, pink fluffy socks – it's going to be a week of fabulously flamboyant fashion! This blog is actually being written as I sit on a velvet-cushioned chaise lounge, sipping a steaming cappuccino (I’m absolutely nailing this Italian girl vibe!) with the scent of jasmine from the hotel's beautiful, secret courtyard garden wafting in the window.
I know you love all the pretty details, and this is going to be a week packed with them - it’s Rome! For those of you new to #PinkTutuRome – I travel the world (always with my signature pink tutu!) sharing my adventures, the amazing shows I see, the fashion that I adore and encouraging you to live your life to the fullest. This week is a particular highlight as it’s Rome! I've been looking forward to exploring its history, culture, and fabulous fashion, but most importantly the shows. It's going to be an absolutely amazing week – you’re in for a treat!
But first, let’s rewind the clock to Derbyshire – I know you love hearing about how I fund my travels and my gorgeous wardrobe. This time around, I landed the coveted lead in the annual "Nutcracker" at the Matlock Festival Theatre. Now, I’ve been working with “Dance Steps Derbyshire" for a few years now, and you know how I feel about community ballet schools! They are all about getting everyone dancing – every single person deserves the joy of moving to the music!
You will never guess the opening night costume... (Okay, it’s pink!). Yes, a glorious full-skirted tutu, beautifully adorned with shimmering silver and sparkly tulle. This tutu was absolutely dreamy, but it came with the biggest, glitziest pink feather boa ever! It felt absolutely epic wearing it, the feather boa made the stage just so... well… extra!
The show was sold out, every seat was full of ecstatic audiences who were ready for a festive treat! This time we didn't have any “stage mom” moments. This show had an especially special meaning as it’s dedicated to our teacher, the wonderful Mrs. Peters, who taught me how to plie and even made me love the barre.
There’s nothing more magical than watching ballet dancers gracefully twirling and pirouette on stage. It’s magical, full of joy, pure artistry and elegance. A ballet show, that's the true way to enjoy Christmas time! And for my “Pink Tutu Rome” budget, it’s a full night of paid work with a standing ovation!
Now, we’re back to Rome!
For the first couple of days, we've been strolling through Rome's most picturesque spots: the Colosseum – a beautiful Roman arena (not a ballet stage but definitely stunning!). It felt like being on a film set! I mean, just imagine it! My “Pink Tutu Rome” photoshoot in the Colosseum would be iconic! (Next year’s post perhaps!)
Then, we meandered through the romantic Borghese Gallery, where art literally whispered from the walls – imagine, classical sculptures all perfectly illuminated with the warm golden glow of late afternoon light! And, naturally, a pink tutu stop for a classic “Borghese Garden” selfie!
This afternoon, it’s Pantheon – how about a ballet in this truly breathtaking architecture – that enormous dome and the way the light falls through the “oculus”? So dreamy! But I'll have to bring my pink tutu back here – my dancing might distract the other tourists.
Let's get back to the fashion! Oh my goodness, the Italian shops in Rome! My motto for this week? “The bigger the hat the better!” If anyone knows about “big hats”, it’s the Italians! Rome has everything, vintage couture shops packed with velvet gowns, a vintage “Moschino” with an equally large red “C” hat and so many leather jackets! I had to get my Italian boots – perfect for exploring this charming, beautiful city! (I think they may already be my new favourites!)
This evening is a big one, Rome’s Ballet Opera House – Tonight's show is "The Swan Lake" - It’s famous for the famous ballet scene – white tutus for all of the ballerinas – just divine!
Rome is incredible and every single moment has been delightful, with a beautiful Italian sunset painting the skies every night! And oh, have I mentioned food? From delectable "trattorias" – tucked away on tiny cobbled side streets to sophisticated al fresco restaurants serving delectable, fresh "pasta al pomodoro" (yes, a little pink goes a long way!). A little bit of shopping (just a little – remember those pink feather boas!), lots of exploring, amazing food and a stunning ballet - This trip is just starting to look very dreamy, even the "s" is turning to a "z"!
As for tonight's "Swan Lake", well, you’ll have to read all about it next week. There are pink tutus everywhere, even the flowers are blooming pink – well, that might be a bit too much even for me!
Keep dancing and follow me on Instagram – @pinktutuemma for my favourite pink tutu moments!
Until next week!
Ciao!
Emma
