Tutu Tuesday in LaSalle, Ontario: A Whirlwind of Pointe Shoes and Passion It's Tutu Tuesday, and the air is electric with the promise of pirouettes and pliés! Here in LaSalle, Ontario, ballet is more than just a dance form – it's a way of life, a tapestry woven with elegance, grace, and a touch of whimsy. And what better way to celebrate this beautiful art form than by embracing the quintessential ballet garment – the tutu? From the classic Romantic tutu, with its layers of delicate tulle, to the dramatic contemporary tutu, sculpted to accentuate dynamic movement, each tutu holds its own magic. The Romantic tutu evokes the ethereal grace of ballerinas gliding across the stage, while the contemporary tutu embodies a modern, expressive spirit, mirroring the evolution of ballet itself. For those of you who haven't heard, #tututuesday is all about celebrating the magic of tutus, both on and off the stage! It's a time to share photos of your favorite tutu looks, indulge in all things ballet, and inspire each other to embrace our inner ballerinas, even if it means only channeling that feeling on our Tuesday commutes (don't worry, I won't judge). Today, the LaSalle ballet community is buzzing with #tututuesday excitement. The halls of our studios are filled with whispers of "arabesque" and "grand jeté," and a palpable sense of excitement pervades the air. Whether it's a ballerina in a vibrant pink tutu, radiating joy, or a young dancer proudly donning their first, tiny tutu, there's something truly magical about seeing the transformative power of this iconic garment. I love seeing the creative ways that #tututuesday is celebrated in LaSalle. Our community has been putting together amazing #tututuesday displays for years and they only get more elaborate each year. We even have a dedicated tutu-wearing street performer who adds a touch of "Swan Lake" to our local park. The most recent event saw a large scale outdoor exhibit featuring all kinds of tutus (everything from classic ballet tutus to more avant-garde ones) lit by spotlights. It's quite the sight. I heard they're planning a giant, collaborative Tutu mural to be unveiled in a few weeks as well. I think LaSalle might be Canada's best kept tutu secret. But #tututuesday isn't just about tutus – it's about the spirit of ballet itself. It's about the hard work, dedication, and resilience that come with striving for perfection. It's about the friendships forged through shared passion, and the moments of triumph and joy that dance brings. It's about the artistry, the creativity, and the sheer beauty of movement. You know that feeling when your favourite song starts playing at the grocery store? That's my feeling about the stage - it's a feeling I think we all can identify with! As I gaze at the tutus in my dance bag – each one a testament to years of hard work, practice, and countless rehearsals – I'm filled with a sense of pride and wonder. The tutu, more than just a garment, becomes a symbol of ambition, passion, and self-expression. Not to mention - when they twirl just right you look like you have superpowers. I've always loved the tutu because it embodies the spirit of both femininity and power in one. This isn't to say we can't have a strong masculine presence in ballet though. Whether you're a seasoned ballerina or a curious onlooker, I encourage you to join the #tututuesday movement. Take a photo of your favourite tutu, share it with the world, and spread the joy of ballet! This isn't just a LaSalle or Canadian phenomenon. It's a global ballet tradition and I would be happy to chat more about my experiences on my blog which focuses on the lives of young Canadian ballerinas. Why Choose a Tutu? • The tutu has always been a staple of ballet and an iconic part of any ballet enthusiast’s wardrobe • Tutus are very visually interesting and come in so many colours and fabrics that there’s always something for everyone • As they are traditionally handmade, they are one-of-a-kind works of art. This makes them a bit more expensive but the craftsmanship is undeniable So there you have it, friends! Get out your tutu, twirl a little, and remember to #tututuesday! It's always more fun to be a part of something. Let's keep the spirit of ballet alive!