Tutu Tuesday in Castelnau-le-Lez, Occitanie, France #tututuesday
G'day, lovelies! It's your girl, Tilly, coming at you live from the sunny streets of Castelnau-le-Lez, Occitanie, France! This week's #tututuesday was absolutely magnifique! (That's French for "magnificent," in case you were wondering! 😉)
Today's adventure began bright and early, with the sweet aroma of freshly baked croissants wafting through the air (you know me, can't resist a good pastry!). I was determined to embrace the true essence of Tutu Tuesday in this charming French town, so I slipped into my favourite pale pink tulle tutu, which twirled with every step like a whimsical dream.
After indulging in a café au lait, I took a stroll through the picturesque streets of Castelnau-le-Lez, my tutu billowing behind me like a Parisian cloud. The locals gave me curious but welcoming glances – apparently, a ballerina in a tutu is quite a sight in this neck of the woods! But you know me, I always say: a little flair never hurt anyone.
My first stop was the Centre Chorégraphique de Montpellier, which is actually quite a hop, skip, and jump from Castelnau-le-Lez. Here, I delved into the world of French ballet, a tradition rich in history and artistry. This ballet centre has been pumping out phenomenal dancers for years, and I'm here to tell you – they really know how to make those tutus fly!
Now, here’s a fun fact: I actually tried on a couple of tutus while I was there. They’re known as “tutu plat,” a really flattering flat-style tutu, very popular in French ballet. It was a real thrill to feel like a true ballerine again, even if I didn't have the training to live up to that magical experience.
My little tour wouldn't be complete without an elegant lunch in a traditional French bistro, complete with a baguette, fromage (cheese), and a cheeky glass of local rosé (after all, a ballerina needs to fuel her pirouettes!) It was just so dreamy to sit under the twinkling bistro lights with the gentle music of France filling my heart, my pastel-tutu practically melting into the French landscape.
In the afternoon, I visited the Domaine d'O - the home of an inspiring local community that embraces the art of dance. This place was just amazing! The centre itself is housed in a converted barn, surrounded by stunning gardens with pathways of crushed stone leading to open-air studios for practice sessions and events.
From contemporary ballet to traditional French dance styles – it truly exuded the beauty and expression that embodies a love for the art of movement.
It was a reminder that you don't need a grand theatre or a fancy studio to share the magic of ballet. We all have our own spaces where we can move, dance, and unleash our inner artist.
As the sun began to dip towards the horizon, I found myself at the banks of the Lez River, the golden rays casting long shadows and creating an ethereal glow that mirrored my love for the graceful world of ballet. Here, surrounded by the beauty of nature, I realised that Tutu Tuesday was about more than just twirling a fluffy skirt – it was about finding beauty and joy in everyday moments, inspiring others to embrace the art of self-expression through dance.
So, there you have it – Tutu Tuesday in Castelnau-le-Lez was a perfect mix of charm, elegance and artistry. It's just another reason why I love to embrace my love of ballet all over the world – each place brings with it its unique flavor and inspiration. It’s not just about being a ballerina, it's about expressing ourselves in the art of movement. Go on, embrace your inner ballerina – it's time to dance!
Til next time, darlings!
Much love,
Tilly
Follow Tilly's adventures in the world of dance on her blog at Tilly's Ballerina Blog!
Connect with Tilly on social media:
@TillyBallet #tututuesday