Eysines, Nouvelle-Aquitaine, France: Tutu Tuesday
G'day lovelies! It's your girl, Maddie, back with another #tututuesday post! Today, I'm taking you on a whirl through Eysines, Nouvelle-Aquitaine, a charming little town in southwest France that's really caught my eye (and my heart). You wouldn't believe the vibe here! It's all about embracing your inner Parisian, but with a relaxed, laid-back kind of charm that feels a lot like home - think sun-drenched squares, cafes spilling onto cobbled streets, and just enough old-world architecture to make you feel like you've stepped into a painting.
And speaking of paintings, I was so stoked to stumble upon a real little hidden gem - a ballet studio nestled away in a side street. It wasn't some fancy, flash-bang kind of place. It had this gorgeous, rustic vibe with beams, timber floors and walls plastered with posters and faded photos. It looked like the sort of studio that's seen a lot of stories unfold, of dreams taking flight (or should I say, pirouette!).
Now, you all know I love a good tutu, and the one I found in that studio was absolute perfection. Think a classic romantic style - tulle layered with just a hint of frill, a little blush of colour on the bodice. It made me want to channel my inner Giselle, graceful and ethereal! But then I got talking with the instructor (who, by the way, was this amazing, sassy Frenchwoman who could do a grand jeté for days), and we got to chatting about the different types of tutus and how they evolve in different genres of ballet. Talk about an eye-opener!
For instance, she told me about the "paque" tutu - think romanticism in all its glory - think "La Sylphide" or "Giselle." You know the kind of tutus where the tulle seems to just float on the stage? The lightness, the fluff, the utter perfection of the whole thing - I swear I was transported straight to the Paris Opera Ballet! The "paque" is all about airy grace and elegant movements, but you've got the more structured "ballet" tutu which is super stiff, super grand. I'd call this the "classical" or "imperial" tutu, the one worn in "Swan Lake," for instance. Then, she showed me an example of a "practice tutu" that would be great for technique sessions - no frills, simple and straightforward for perfecting the basics. There are even "contemporary tutus" - a more fitted design made for freer movements. I couldn't help but be in awe! The world of ballet, with its different types of tutus, feels so limitless!
What's amazing is how even though ballet's got this whole classic, traditional side, the scene here in Eysines has a young, energetic feel. There were students of all ages – little ones learning the basics, and some teens who were clearly in their element, their steps looking effortless and polished. I even caught a glimpse of a guy nailing some serious leaps! It was a true mix, everyone finding their own dance within the tradition, you know?
So yeah, you know I'm adding this French ballet studio to my list of must-visit spots for Tutu Tuesdays. I mean, there's nothing quite like the thrill of discovering hidden treasures in charming places and this studio is a perfect example! Now, if you're in the Eysines area (or just travelling through!), head down to this lovely studio and watch your own love affair with ballet begin.
Speaking of which, what's YOUR favourite ballet style or tutu? Tell me about it in the comments below and let's chat #tututuesday style!
Au revoir for now! Love, Maddie xx