Tutu Tuesday in Billy-Montigny, Hauts-de-France, France #tututuesday
G’day, lovelies! Your favourite tutu-obsessed Aussie ballerina is back, and this time, I’m bringing the sparkle from the heart of France. Let me tell you, Billy-Montigny, Hauts-de-France is brimming with *je ne sais quoi*. I can’t believe I’m writing this from a Parisian cafe with my croissant, enjoying the sunshine after spending the day in Billy-Montigny – I could get used to this. It’s definitely my kind of *French* vibe!
This little town has a very different vibe to my ballet life back home in Melbourne. Sure, we have our stunning theatres and vibrant cultural scene, but Billy-Montigny feels like a tucked away little secret - a place where passion for dance runs deep. Here, it’s not just about the fancy costumes and ballets for the elite, it’s about the sheer joy of movement and the power of art that transcends language barriers.
Okay, so maybe my French isn’t *super* strong – a 'bonjour' and a *s’il vous plait* here and there gets me by! But, the language of dance? That’s universal. And in Billy-Montigny, that language is alive and well. I found this beautiful little ballet school – think cobblestone streets, a tiny cafe spilling onto the sidewalk, and then BAM! The Conservatoire National de Région. Can you even? And I gotta tell you, the ballet dancers I met? Just the sweetest people. Their passion for the art is undeniable and it makes my ballerina heart soar.
Talking about ballerina hearts... My quest for the perfect tutu continued on my French adventure. Here’s the deal, the tutus here – they are on a whole other level! Imagine classic tulle, but lighter than air. It was like twirling on a cloud of gossamer. Think *leotard* style - figure hugging and elegant. They also have these *short tutu* styles – think shorter skirt with ruffles - more *petite* and sassy, perfect for *contemporary dance*. And the best part? They’re just bursting with colour. We’re talking like ruby reds, emerald greens, the most breathtaking cerulean blues – pure magic. I bought a new *pastel pink tutu* – *on sale! * for my own ballerina collection. A beautiful French memento, I'm thinking of doing a blog post all about it.
One thing that really stuck with me is how this place embraces all kinds of dance. Classical ballet, sure. But then there’s this *incredible street art*. I mean, think spray paint murals splashed across building walls – some really artistic interpretations of dancers. It blew my mind. Like street dance has been given this huge, beautiful canvas, making the city itself into an outdoor theatre! This incredible artistic mix was really eye opening, I'm planning to visit some street dance studios next - you know me, always on the hunt for inspiration!
In between the ballerinas and the street art, Billy-Montigny's food scene – *magnifique*. Think Parisian cafe vibe with a relaxed French country twist. They have the most incredible selection of pastries, little *petit four* biscuits and these decadent chocolates. Honestly, I think I’ve had my fill of sugar for the year, but, oh, it was worth it. It's just a place where people connect over good food and good conversation - what's not to love?
But what I loved the most – that French *je ne sais quoi*. It’s just something in the air – a little magic, a bit of *panache*. You know? It's about that feeling when the sun shines on the cobblestones, when you share a laugh with a new friend, and a tutu is ready to take centre stage. And that’s exactly what I experienced in Billy-Montigny. The energy here – I was hooked.
What I’ve learned:
- You don’t have to go to a major city to find incredible dance. Sometimes, the most beautiful dance comes from the heart.
- Every country has its own unique style. Here, ballet has a kind of elegance I haven't seen before, but there's a spirituality and passion that's universal.
- Even when you can’t speak the language, a smile goes a long way! And, you know what? A beautiful tutu transcends languages. You can say ‘hello’ to any dancer anywhere.
So there you have it – my *French* adventure, tutu and all. I hope you’ve enjoyed the little trip to Billy-Montigny, Hauts-de-France, France. If you ever get the chance to go, trust me, grab your ballet shoes, your brightest smile, and enjoy the magic!
Until next time,
Your tutu-loving Aussie,
#tututuesday #frenchballet #billymontigny #hautsdefrance