‘If you can, move!’ Rome’s viral dancing duo urges others to get active

ROME, Aug 14 — An elderly dancing duo has taken the Roman square by storm, captivating audiences with their energetic performances to songs by Michael Jackson and Elvis Presley. Retired dance teacher Pasquale Iannotta, 70, and his partner Elisa Fava, 79, have garnered praise from Rome’s mayor and national television after a performance was shared online by a social media-savvy tour operator.

"No one ever thought we could go viral like this," Fava told AFP, as they returned to Testaccio square for another performance. Their moves have resonated with many in Italy, whose population is the oldest in the European Union. The original video received over 370,000 likes on Instagram and was complimented by Rome’s mayor, Roberto Gualtieri.

Iannotta and Fava, who met as dance students, have since been invited to perform on Rai Uno’s flagship morning show and other television programs. The pair, who started performing outdoors in the summer, hope their sudden popularity will encourage seniors to become more active. Iannotta, who wears a floral short-sleeve shirt and sunglasses, said, "I have many friends who, unfortunately, when they retire, like many others end up sitting on the sofa watching television.

I’d like to see them get a bit more active." With a median age of 49.1, Italy is the EU’s oldest country, and the fertility rate has dropped to an 80-year low. Doctors emphasize the importance of physical activity for older people, noting its benefits for brain and heart health. Fava, who recently became a great-grandmother, encouraged fellow seniors with a message: "Don’t be idle: if you can, move. Particularly dancing is good for you."