Roman nightlife still retained the pretentious tinsel mocked by Fellini in Dolce Vita. Evening dress is commonplace, and prices higher than in other European capitals. However, in summer it is much calmer, than you would expect, because in July and August there is a traditional exodus from all the cities in Italy, so jazz bars and Latin American clubs are open. Concerts are less unburdened in summer.
Most rock and pop musicians with their surnames perform in Rome (often in tents scattered across the city), while for lovers of classical music, theater and film, a feast is organized in the form of summer festivals L'Estate Romana and L'Estate Tiberina, although not counting music, knowledge of Italian is of course necessary.
Information and tickets
The best info what? where? when? can be found in Trovaroma, a free expansion pack for the Saturday edition of La Repubblica. The program is in Italian, but it's easy to get to know it all.
It is also worth taking a look at the columns devoted to art in the main Roman dailies La Repubblica and IIMessagero. The only cultural information in English is the biweekly Wanted in Rome (for free at the EPT office), with a very limited scope of information, and the more comprehensive This Week in Rome (4000 L; available monthly from newspaper kiosks), However, it has an uninteresting way of presentation.
The purchase of tickets should start at the Orbis office in Piazza Esquilino 37 (•4751403), although cash registers can also be found in the following shops and bars: Babylon (Via del Corso 85), Rebirth (via delle Botteghe Oscure 1) i Yenice LA (via del Boscheto 132).
Discos and clubs
Roman discos and clubs make up the whole range of this type of institution. They are huge, shiny halls with great lighting and sound equipment, common dance music and a clientele in flashy clothes and makeup, where is worth going, if you can afford and just want to dance (as well as looking at a fairly large percentage of Rome's population, for which it is the staple entertainment on Saturday evenings). However, there are also more exclusive bars with music and less fancy discos with more interesting recordings and more economical, young clientele. There is also a small group of clubs designed specifically for gays and lesbians. They are usually open from late evening until morning, and high fees go up 30000 L in more exclusive venues.
Clubs
Acropolis, via Luciana 52 ( 870504). A typical disco for a fairly young clientele. Restaurant and bar in the garden, where it is very nice in summer. Pn. closed. Open from 22.00 until dawn.
Black Out, Via Satumia 18 (•7596791). One of the better cheap clubs, sometimes live music, bizarre exhibitions and alternative fashion shows. Sometimes there are DJs from one of the most avant-garde radio stations in the city, cittauno.
Gilda, via Mario de'Fiori 97 (» 6784838). Currently, the most fashionable club in the city - flashy decor, appear smaller (and future) Roman celebrities.
Hysteria, via Giovanelli 3 (•» 864587). After opening in 1983 r. it briefly enjoyed the reputation of the city's most extravagant disco. Currently, she's a little pissed off, but still popular. The music is leaning towards funky and soul. Pt.-sb. from 23.00 late.
Piper, via Tagliamento 9 (»854459). One of the oldest discos in Rome, with live music, video and various attractions. Mon closed.
The stars, via Beccaria 22 (•3611240). It grows into the most fashionable place among fashionable society. Musical news.
Lesbian and gay clubs
Angelo Azzuro, via Cardinale Merry del Val (»5800472). A gay club with a relaxed atmosphere, with music, small rooms and discreet lighting. Young, Cheerful, intellectualizing company. Mon closed.
Easy Going, way of Purification 9 (*4745578). Aggressively homosexual disco, with a large admixture of transvestites. Pn.-pt. Free entrance. Sex police at the door. Nd.zamkn.
Hanger, away in Selci 69 (*461397). Pupulamy bar with a video near the Church of Santa Maria Maggiore. Tue closed.
L'Alibi, via Monte Testaccio 44 (w 5782343). The club first and foremost, but not exclusively male, belonging to the best gay venues in Rome. There is a disco in the basement, upstairs, an open-air bar. Mon closed.
St James, via Campania 37a (»493706). Conservative, with a long tradition - jacket and tie required.