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Tutu Tuesday in Auchel, Hauts-de-France, France: A Ballerina's Dream Come True! #tututuesday Bonjour from the beautiful Hauts-de-France region of France! This week, my #tututuesday journey took me to Auchel, a charming little town known for its rich history and, of course, its vibrant local ballet scene. You know, I've always said that no matter where you go in the world, a ballet class is a great way to connect with the local culture, and Auchel did not disappoint! From the moment I stepped into the studio, I could feel the passion for dance coursing through the air. I was met by a friendly group of dancers, all with their unique stories and perspectives on ballet. And, as always, I was mesmerized by the array of tutus they donned. Weā€™re talking everything from the classic, voluminous Romantic tutu, perfect for swirling and pirouettes, to the contemporary, shorter, and more streamlined ā€œmodern tutu.ā€ Let me tell you, I was totally in my element. Seeing all these different tutu styles and watching these French ballerinas move with such grace and precision, really inspired me! You know, it got me thinking about how ballet, at its core, is a truly universal language. It transcends borders, cultures, and even different styles. During my time in Auchel, I had the opportunity to watch the local ballet company perform. It was incredible! The energy, the storytelling, the sheer passion... it was truly moving. The tutus, oh my goodness, they were just spectacular! There was this one dancer, let me tell you, she was wearing a beautiful, traditional, layered tutu in the most gorgeous shade of dusty rose. I just couldnā€™t take my eyes off her. Her movement was just exquisite - so fluid and effortless, you could barely hear her shoes tap against the stage floor. The tutu flowed with her every turn, each pirouette just a whirlwind of soft pink fabric. The ballet company here in Auchel, is a true testament to the enduring spirit of ballet, and it reminded me why I love this art form so much. It is an art that demands grace, dedication, and passion. It is an art that transcends cultures, uniting dancers and audiences all over the world through a shared passion. I must confess, though, thereā€™s nothing like stepping onto the stage in a gorgeous tutu. The way it feels to spin around and feel the fabric billowing out behind youā€¦ the way it allows you to express your inner ballerina ā€“ itā€™s a truly magical experience. Of course, a ballerinaā€™s tutu journey doesnā€™t just happen on stage. It begins in the studio! The time we spend practicing, learning our steps, building strength and flexibility ā€“ that's where we cultivate that undeniable stage presence. So, while I was in Auchel, I joined the local dance class. Letā€™s just say, I had to really dust off my French. Turns out my "plies" weren't quite as sharp as they used to be! Despite my occasional mis-steps, everyone in the class was so encouraging, I felt instantly welcomed. There's nothing like the energy of a dance class. You know, I think everyone, whether you're a seasoned ballerina or a complete beginner, should try it sometime! Anyway, this trip to Auchel has really opened my eyes to the vibrant world of ballet outside of Australia. Seeing how different cultural influences shape this beautiful art form is just so fascinating. You see, ballet, in its essence, is a timeless and universal art form. And when it comes to tutus, well, letā€™s just say itā€™s a language that speaks volumes, no matter where you are in the world. So, if you ever find yourself in Auchel, make sure you check out their local ballet company, and grab yourself a gorgeous tutu. Thanks for reading, and happy Tutu Tuesday! Until next time, Your Tutu Tuesday Aussie Ballerina