Tutu Tuesday in Alençon, Normandy, France #tututuesday
G'day from the cobblestone streets of Alençon, Normandy! It's a glorious Tuesday morning here and the sun is shining. And for a ballet dancer, there's no better day than a Tuesday to be adorned in a tutu. So, grab your morning coffee, settle in, and join me for a chat about the wonderful world of tutus.
This is a dream come true - exploring the heart of France. I have to say, I'm loving the architecture here, and you really do feel a different sense of history in the air.
Of course, the real draw for me to Alençon has got to be the history of ballet here. I've already been to the beautiful Château d'Alençon and it's an absolutely magnificent structure, and I'm planning to visit the Centre Dramatique National d'Alençon soon.
But back to the point. This trip wouldn't be complete without indulging in a bit of Tutu Tuesday inspiration, right? I thought I'd take a stroll around this charming French town, and share my observations about the perfect tutu for every occasion. You know, for when a casual stroll through a medieval city requires a little extra flair.
**So, my dear readers, let’s break down some classic tutu styles, because there’s nothing like a little sartorial education, right?**
- The *Romantic tutu* (think the romantic era and classic ballets like La Sylphide) is all about floatiness. Made from multiple layers of tulle, this tutu flows around you as if you’re in a dream – oh so pretty! It’s best suited to light and delicate roles like ballerinas flitting around a meadow in the middle of a ballet. For our day in Alençon, a soft tulle romantic tutu in a delicate pastel colour like pink or peach would be absolutely perfect! Think pastel dream.
- The *Classical tutu* (also known as a *Bell tutu* for its bell shape), on the other hand, has a slightly stiffer, yet still lightweight, bodice, making for a sharper, more controlled shape. This tutu really does show off the technical precision of your legs. When I want to channel my inner Balanchine or Tchaikovsky heroine, it’s the go-to.
- Next up, the *Modern tutu*. You know, it’s that contemporary style with layers and layers of tulle, perfect for movement. This is your ultimate comfort zone – great for a class, a choreographed piece with movement that shows off the fullness, or, you know, even an impromptu tutu session while sightseeing.
- Last, but not least, the *Character tutu*. This tutu has less to do with technical flair, and more to do with expression! The tutu could have lots of embellishment, layers of silk and satin – whatever speaks to a particular ballet role or even a character’s backstory. This tutu is your *dress up* moment, where you get to make a real statement. Let your imagination run wild! It could be a *Spanish tutu*, complete with the dramatic movement. Or, perhaps something like a *Russian character* style tutu for a strong presence on stage. This kind of style could be absolutely perfect in a quaint French town, so when we see some pretty buildings, it’s *Character tutu time*!
After a quick but exciting pit stop in a local patisserie for a coffee and some croissant, I’m wandering down a beautiful street lined with old buildings, with their incredible facade – a reminder of how special it is to experience new places, to be out of my usual, you know, ballet studio and on stage in a theatre setting.
We Australians know a thing or two about making an outfit work across the seasons and for different occasions, whether it be our beloved beaches or our busy cityscapes. Just a bit of light layering, and, for this fashion forward ballerina, maybe an interesting cardigan over a traditional ballet style tunic will create the right look for a sophisticated #tututuesday in Alençon!
Let me share one of my recent favourites - the *Bell tutu*. I got it from an awesome shop in Sydney - and if you're ever visiting, hit up their ballet boutique. I also own a selection of different coloured leotards - I love having choices!
The best thing about Tutu Tuesday? It's a chance to celebrate everything about the grace and elegance of ballet. I believe every ballet dancer can find a tutu that makes them feel like they can truly embrace that magic.
There’s nothing quite like the feeling of twirling in a tulle cloud. That *swish* as the layers dance around you, a delightful feeling, you know! From Alençon, France, to Sydney’s beaches, there is something special about tutus. They always make you smile!
Anyway, gotta dash – there are some cobblestone streets to explore and my friend from the Centre Dramatique National d’Alençon is coming to pick me up to take me to the performance of "Giselle". And you better believe I’ll be wearing my very own *Romantic tutu* in celebration of this historical classic. The #tututuesday fun will continue here in the French countryside, and we'll be sure to report back next week. Stay tuned! Au revoir, and let’s talk about tutus next Tuesday.