Sainte-Adresse, Normandy, France #tututuesday
G’day from the cobblestone streets of Sainte-Adresse! You know what they say, “tutu Tuesday is for the birds”, or at least that’s what my Nan would say. But today, I’m saying a big, resounding “NO WAY, NAN!”, because tutu Tuesday in Normandy is seriously one of the most fabulous things ever.
It all started with a little chat at the local café. I was sipping a strong latte and trying to decipher the French on the menu when this woman – picture her with that chic Parisian look – asked, “Avez-vous entendu parler de la Tutus de mardi?” I practically choked on my coffee. "Tutues?! On Tuesday?! Seriously?!" It turns out, yeah, seriously.
Turns out, this isn't just some fancy dress-up party. This is a community celebration. Every Tuesday in Sainte-Adresse, the local ballet company, Le Ballet de la Côte, runs an open class right here in the picturesque town square. There's live music (think classical vibes, not the disco type) and people of all ages come to learn and laugh, even those who don't normally dabble in the art of ballet.
I was a little hesitant at first, being the Aussie newcomer and all, but everyone was so welcoming. No judging, just smiles and encouragement as I wobbled my way through some classic pliés and jetés. It felt a little awkward at first – imagine this little Aussie gal, all toned thighs and bouncy hair, in the middle of a French ballet class, surrounded by elegance and sophistication – but you know what? It was utterly, unbelievably joyful. It was like finding a whole new language, one that speaks of grace and strength, all wrapped up in a swirling cloud of tulle.
The sheer variety of tutus in this class was seriously inspiring. From the traditional romantic tutu with its airy layers of tulle, so popular for classical pieces, to the more streamlined contemporary tutu, made from tougher fabric that allows for more movement and modern choreography – I even saw a girl in a fab, short, "pouvoir" tutu with the layers of the romantic tutu but a cropped design. Honestly, it looked like a modern ballet warrior princess, and it just about stole the show.
My favorite thing about this tutu Tuesday, though? It was less about performance and more about connection. Sure, we learned some basic ballet moves and there were plenty of moments when we were giggling at our wobbly efforts, but it was mostly about having fun together, a celebration of movement, music, and yes, even the tutus themselves!
Now, don’t get me wrong, there’s a serious ballet culture here in Normandy. They take their classical training seriously, but there's also a love for embracing the joy and artistry of this beautiful dance form. The dancers of Le Ballet de la Côte are fantastic – elegant, graceful, and always so passionate. They definitely know their "plie" from their "jete", but they’re also more than willing to share their knowledge with everyone who wants to take a step into the world of ballet, even a goofy Aussie girl like me.
What really surprised me was the incredible enthusiasm from everyone in the class, from little kids in their first tutu to older women in their, well, let’s say they’ve been dancing for a few decades! Seeing them move, their faces beaming with joy, I knew I'd found something special. It reminded me of those cheesy feel-good movies, but with a little extra "je ne sais quoi" that comes with being in France.
Let’s get real for a sec. There’s no shame in admitting that dancing in a tutu is pretty freakin' awesome, and this Tutu Tuesday was proof positive. Imagine – sunshine streaming down on the ancient cobblestone squares, music flowing through the air, and a bunch of people of all ages and shapes dancing their hearts out. There’s just something inherently fun and freeing about twirling around in a cloud of tulle, no matter what age or skill level.
As for me? I might be a long way from home, but Sainte-Adresse, France has certainly captured my heart, or should I say, my heart and my pointe shoes. I can’t wait for next Tuesday, and maybe, just maybe, I'll even be brave enough to try out a more contemporary style, instead of sticking with the classics.
For anyone reading this, here’s my little advice: Ditch those comfy shoes, get out of the café, and dance like no one's watching – or rather, like everyone's watching! Because seriously, tutus are magic and life's way too short to be serious all the time. Go on, embrace your inner ballerina! You won't regret it. And if you're ever in Sainte-Adresse on a Tuesday, head down to the town square. Trust me, you'll have a ball.
And while you're at it, grab a picture of yourself in your tutu and post it with the hashtag #tututuesday - I can't wait to see what everyone else is wearing! Cheers!