Bonjour from Le Petit-Quevilly, Normandie, France!
It's Tutu Tuesday, and guess what? I'm living my best ballet life in the beautiful town of Le Petit-Quevilly! Who knew a little town just outside Rouen had such a thriving ballet scene?
Let's face it, I’m a total tutu girl. From the romantic pouter pigeon to the classical, graceful pointe shoe - I’ve tried 'em all. But nothing gets me feeling more confident and ready to twirl than a classic, knee-length tulle tutu. The kind you imagine ballerinas from the French Revolution wearing (okay, maybe not THAT long ago) but with a modern twist.
And I’m definitely not the only one rocking the tutu. There's a serious Tutu Tuesday happening all over the globe – from Melbourne to London, with the help of #tututuesday. It's so refreshing to see girls embracing their inner ballerina, wherever they are, and embracing their bodies.
Now, I wouldn't call my experience here in Le Petit-Quevilly an “official ballet class” but that's just me being cheeky. Honestly, I've discovered the most incredible little studio nestled in a quiet corner. Let's call it “boutique.” They have everything – from beautiful pointe shoes in every shade of pink (I snagged a pair with delicate silver sequins, they are divine!) to classes covering all the fundamentals. And best of all? They totally embrace the #tututuesday vibe.
It's more than just a class, it’s an experience.
- You walk into the studio, and there's this energy buzzing around - excitement, dedication, but also pure joy.
- Everyone from little ones doing their first pliés to adults gracefully moving through their barre work – it's captivating to watch.
- The instructor, Madame Genevieve, she's the real deal. Her years of experience as a professional ballerina shines through. Every movement is precise, every correction made with a gentle, encouraging touch.
From Classic to Chic – A Parisian Twist on the Tutu
The tutu here has a unique charm that I haven't seen elsewhere. In this Parisian setting, they seem more sophisticated. There's a classic elegance that speaks volumes without even a single twirl. There's less “sparkle” and more "sophistication".Think soft pastels, flowing tulle, maybe a dash of satin ribbons for added touch. Even their ballet shoes – they have a beautiful, classic feel with soft ribbons instead of the modern, adjustable straps.
But it’s not just about the clothes, right? I've noticed a subtle shift in the ballet scene here in Le Petit-Quevilly, as it's moved away from strict discipline. The studio feels like a safe space for the local girls to learn, grow and embrace their inner artistry. Madame Genevieve’s classes foster that sense of joy, making the tutu more than just an outfit, but a symbol of confidence and self-expression.
I'm already daydreaming about my next class, dreaming up new outfits to rock and snapping shots with my #tututuesday gang – there's definitely something magical about donning that tulle skirt, stretching out those legs and feeling every movement become a beautiful form of expression. I guess I've found my tutu home in Le Petit-Quevilly.
Stay tuned, because this is just the beginning. There's more #tututuesday adventures in the making, and trust me, they’re going to be a whirlwind of tulle and grace.