Tutu Tuesday in Tailem Bend, South Australia #tututuesday
G'day, darlings! It's your girl, Elle, here, bringing you another dose of Tutu Tuesday. This week, we're taking a trip down to Tailem Bend, South Australia, for a little dose of country charm and ballet magic! You know, the kind of charm where your gran's apple pie lingers in the air as you shimmy into your tutu.
Now, I know what you're thinking, Tailem Bend? Isn't that where they have those crazy hot-rod races? It sure is! But Tailem Bend is also home to a burgeoning community of ballet enthusiasts. I was blown away by the passion I encountered there, and the gorgeous tutu styles were absolutely divine! We're talking everything from classic romantic tutus with gossamer layers, all the way to modern contemporary designs that truly make you say, "Crikey!"
We kicked off Tutu Tuesday with a visit to the Tailem Bend Community Centre, where I joined the locals for a ballet class with Mrs. Jones, a former professional ballerina who taught in Adelaide back in her day. She's a true inspiration and, let me tell you, this woman could still kick a triple pirouette right outta you! We practised some basic ballet steps, focusing on alignment and elegance, before trying out some choreographed movements inspired by the Kangaroo Island dance company, who're big on using local inspiration, like native flora and fauna. We also got to chat with a few talented youngsters in the community, like young Tilly, who's going for a full-length swan lake solo at her school play next month! A total star!
After our ballet workout, it was time to grab a bite. A visit to "Tailem Bend Pie and Tarte" wouldn't be complete without indulging in a classic Aussie sausage roll, and it was perfect fuel to keep us going through the afternoon.
Speaking of tutus, it wouldn't be a Tutu Tuesday without a trip to the local costume shop. Let's be real, my obsession with tutus is off the charts. I have a bit of a confession: when I travel, I can't help myself – I'm constantly searching for hidden gems of costumes and fabrics. Tailem Bend had plenty of "finds"!
My favourite piece was a stunningly crafted tutu by local artisan, Amelia. It was inspired by the wild beauty of the Murray River, which runs right through Tailem Bend, featuring hues of cerulean blue and shimmering sequins that mimicked the sun reflecting off the water. It was almost as beautiful as the stunning vista I captured of the river just before the sun set. It felt magical to see the reflection of the fading sunlight on the water, just like a tutu sparkling under stage lights!
Our day wrapped up with a picnic along the banks of the Murray River. With my custom tutu as my makeshift picnic blanket, the sound of the flowing water and the laughter of fellow Tutu Tuesday fans filling the air, I knew this trip would stay with me. The beauty of a tutu, for me, is not just about its look - it's the connection to others through shared passion for the art.
In a small town like Tailem Bend, Tutu Tuesday went beyond the fashion – it was about connecting, inspiring, and showing everyone that even in the most unexpected places, ballet can find a home. You don't need to live in a big city to experience the joy of dancing. Even a little town in South Australia can become a vibrant hub for the art, just with a little spark, a little creativity, and maybe even a couple of stunningly handcrafted tutus.
So, keep those tutus twirling, my loves, and I'll see you next week for more Tutu Tuesday adventures! And, don't forget, a little bit of whimsy and sparkle goes a long way – and in a town like Tailem Bend, those are two things they definitely don't shy away from!
A few of my favorite tutu moments from Tailem Bend:
- Seeing the smiles on the faces of the local dancers as they twirled in their tutus at the community centre! Pure joy.
- Getting my hands on that custom-made tutu at the local shop, Amelia's work is seriously divine. The inspiration for that design – the Murray River and the way the sun hit it was incredible, I may just have to steal it and put it in my own collection... *wink*
- Picnicking along the Murray, watching the river shimmer under the sunset – it truly was magical!
- Being able to share this Tutu Tuesday with so many passionate dancers, from tiny tot dancers to grown adults, it just proves ballet is for everyone and every body.
More tutu-ly fabulous reasons to visit Tailem Bend!
- Hot-rod racing. I know it doesn't sound glamorous, but trust me, there's something about the adrenaline of seeing those V8's fly around the track - a little thrill doesn't hurt on Tutu Tuesday, right? The Australian International Motor race season in May is the best time to catch the hot rod action!
- Murray River. What better way to relax after all those pirouettes? A picnic beside the river is the perfect way to end a tutu filled day, and a great spot for a cheeky Instagram photo!
- Tailem Bend Museum. You're always in for a surprise when it comes to Australian museum history! I went expecting a standard local history thing, but was so surprised to learn about the history of agriculture in the region, and how this town played a big part in developing South Australia into what it is today.
- The food scene. Okay, I know, I am obsessed with good food! Tailem Bend is not "all steak" like a lot of small towns around Australia - the local pub "The Bend" has some seriously awesome food, including vegetarian dishes, which are harder to find when you're touring around rural South Australia!
Until next time, remember to keep the twirls going and always stay sparkly, XOXO Elle