Tutu Tuesday 18049

Tutu Tuesday in Dunkerque, Hauts-de-France, France: A Tutu-licious Adventure #tututuesday
G'day, fashionistas! This week I'm whisking you away to the beautiful seaside city of Dunkerque, Hauts-de-France, in France. I've traded my usual Bondi Beach digs for the charming cobblestone streets and sea breezes of this historic port town. It's been a dream come true to explore the rich cultural landscape of France, and what better way to do so than by embracing my inner ballerina?
This Tutu Tuesday, I decided to step out of my comfort zone and delve into the local ballet scene. After all, what's more iconic than a ballerina in a tutu, especially in France? You know, the birthplace of some of the most renowned ballets and ballet dancers in the world! As a fellow dancer, I'm absolutely buzzing to soak it all in.
Now, let's talk tutus. You guys know I love a good tutu moment. The way the fabric swirls and floats with every pirouette, the sheer elegance and artistry it embodies, it's just divine! I’ve had the pleasure of trying on a few beauties during my stay, and I’ve gotta tell ya, French tutus have got their own special je ne sais quoi. They’re classic and understated, but they’re also incredibly stylish, you know? There’s an air of Parisian chic, with their romantic, flowy lines and delicate embellishments.
First stop: The "Centre de Danse et des Arts Vivants" (CDAV), a fantastic contemporary dance centre nestled right in the heart of Dunkerque. Here I saw some amazing performances featuring tutus that were both daring and sophisticated. The tutus they use here are a mix of modern and traditional designs. There's everything from simple, minimalist ones in sleek black or navy, which are perfect for conveying contemporary ballet's powerful movements, to elaborate ones that evoke a sense of grandeur, almost like they're stepping out of a grand opera.
Speaking of grandeur, one of the most captivating moments of my trip involved experiencing the breathtaking grandeur of the "Palais des Beaux-Arts". The grand ballroom in this historical building is absolutely spectacular and it has served as a venue for numerous ballet performances. They've even kept some of the original decor, which has created this really romantic atmosphere. And when the dancers in their exquisitely detailed tutus perform on the stage beneath those ornate chandeliers, you feel like you're stepping into a fairy tale. It’s magical.
Now, here's something interesting I discovered during my exploration. Did you know that in Dunkerque, they have a really special style of local ballet called "D'an'S Dance?" I absolutely loved learning about this unique local ballet style! It’s got all the elements of traditional ballet—grace, elegance, and athleticism—but with a playful twist.
I was particularly captivated by their use of whimsical costumes. I saw dancers dressed in these delightful tutus, not only with traditional layers of tulle but also featuring funky, eye-catching embellishments, like colourful beads and feathered details. It's almost like a carnival of colours and textures, which really added to the vibrant spirit of the choreography. I could really feel the local passion shining through.
Speaking of spirit, I spent a wonderful afternoon at a local park called "Jardin des Plantes" where they often have dance classes. While sipping a freshly-made "café au lait," I got to watch a class full of eager little ballerinas twirling in their tutu skirts, with the scent of lavender from the nearby garden adding to the magical experience. I think it’s super important to introduce dance to young girls—and boys! —at a young age, because dance isn't just about perfecting pirouettes and graceful leaps, it’s also about creativity, confidence, and discipline.
Of course, I couldn't visit Dunkerque without a trip to the iconic "Place de l'Hôtel de Ville." It's got a beautiful open space with elegant old buildings, making it the perfect spot to catch some street performers. It’s got this vibrant, cosmopolitan energy, which is fantastic for street art and performers. You’ll see mimes, acrobats, musicians and sometimes even ballerinas.
After taking a walk around town, my journey took me to "Le Musée de la Marine," which celebrates the history of the French navy and includes a display of historical uniforms. The detailed embroidery on some of the uniforms, particularly the elegant ones that women would wear in the past, reminded me of the beautiful embellishments often seen in ballet costumes and, in a way, those beautiful costumes could be seen as a contemporary homage to the tradition and elegance of historical uniforms.
The vibrant spirit of this coastal city is definitely contagious. It has captured my heart and given me an invaluable taste of French life.
So, to all you aspiring ballerinas out there, and to the fashionistas who love to see their favourite dancers pirouette in a beautiful tutu, make sure you don't just stay confined to the studios, get out there, explore, embrace the joy of dance!
Don't forget to tag me in your #tututuesday photos! And follow me for more adventures as I explore the beauty of dance in France!
Here are some things I recommend for Tutu Tuesday in Dunkerque:
* Visit the **Centre de Danse et des Arts Vivants** (CDAV) for captivating contemporary ballet performances * Enjoy the opulent ballet experience at the historic **Palais des Beaux-Arts** * Check out the colourful and whimsical D'an'S Dance for a uniquely Dunkerque ballet experience * Participate in a dance class at the **Jardin des Plantes** or enjoy a performance * Have your picture taken in a tutu at **Place de l'Hôtel de Ville**, where you're likely to catch some street performers * Visit the **Musée de la Marine** to learn about the history of French naval uniforms, which echo the details of traditional and modern ballet costumes * Embrace the vibrancy and elegance of **Dunkerque** and feel inspired!