Tutu Tuesday in McMinns Lagoon, Northern Territory
G'day from the land of crocs and kakadu plum! It's me, your girl Jess, bringing you a special #tututuesday all the way from McMinns Lagoon, NT.
I'm out here for a month, giving some workshops for kids on the fringes of the remote communities of Arnhem Land. But even though I'm miles from the city lights and the plush studios, my inner ballerina never sleeps! This land breathes creativity, just like the rest of Australia, which means there's a bit of tutu-loving energy simmering within every bush walk and outback sunset.
I know, you're probably thinking "tutus in the outback?!", But you gotta hear me out. Think beyond the dusty outback image. We’re not talking full-blown, *Swan Lake* length here, but more of a *Giselle* style tutu for some of my outback moves. I call it the ‘Kakadu Classic’. Let's talk about styles! Here's my ultimate tutu Tuesday, Arnhem Land edition:
- The 'Desert Dreaming Tutu': It's all about lightweight layers with floaty fabrics like silk or georgette in earth-toned hues. Think dusty reds, burnt oranges, and ochre. Picture it twirling in the wind like a gumleaf falling from a eucalyptus tree. Perfect for feeling graceful under the scorching sun.
- The ‘Spinifex Swirl Tutu’ : Think rugged yet delicate - layers of recycled materials like cotton or silk, dyed in deep indigos, blacks, and ochres. They represent the strong, textured spinifex that dominates the desert landscape. There's something edgy and contemporary about these 'tutus'. They evoke the wild spirit of Arnhem Land.
- The 'Boab Ballerina' Tutu': Inspired by the majestic boab tree, this is more of a ‘layered wrap tutu’. Picture a long, flowing skirt with layers of fabrics that billow like the boab’s branches. Think rich burgundy tones, greens, and maybe even a sprinkle of white to represent its iconic blooms. This tutu would move as gracefully as the ancient boab, embracing every curve.
My Tutu Tuesday sessions in the NT are about celebrating the dance within ourselves and around us. From exploring the bougainvillea and grevillea gardens at our retreat, to doing pirouettes amongst the boabs, we're letting our hair down, our laughter out, and our creative spirit flow freely.
It's not always about the tutus themselves. It’s the stories that these simple skirts weave together — about resilience, nature’s power, and connecting with our deepest selves, no matter where in Australia we might be. So wherever you are this Tutu Tuesday, put on a twirling skirt, a loose-fitting gown, or even a simple pair of denim shorts – and get your creative flow on!
Remember to tag #tututuesday and share your Aussie-inspired dance moves. You’ve got the moves. Just give it a go. And to all the future ballerinas, dance hopefuls, and artists across the country, stay bold and remember: 'No matter where you are, there's always a dance to be found'.
Peace out, Jess xx