Tutu Tuesday in Coaldale, Alberta: A Celebration of Ballet's Whimsy
Hey everyone, it's your favourite ballet blogger, Claire, back with another Tutu Tuesday post! Today, I'm stepping out of the studio and into the heart of Coaldale, Alberta, where I'm feeling the twirl vibes strong. If you haven't heard of Coaldale, think big skies, rolling prairie hills, and a charming community spirit – just like the heart of Canada, eh? 🇨🇦 And just like you wouldn't catch me stepping onto the stage in ripped tights, Coaldale has an unexpected little secret: a booming dance community.
You see, while you might expect to find tutu twirls on the stages of big-city theatres, Coaldale has a secret that I'm here to share. It’s more than just a town, it’s a haven for the ballet bug – it’s where I recently discovered a little haven of twirling and artistry.
Okay, let's get back to our star attraction – the tutus. From classic romantic tutus, with their billowing layers of tulle, to the more modern and contemporary styles, like the "whimsical" tutu, which is all about light, airy layers and movement, the diversity of tutus that we see on the dance floor is just as mesmerizing as the skill of the dancers. You really feel the full force of creativity, from the very structured and classic "Bellini" style, which you can’t miss because of its flat skirt and beautiful lace, to the more casual, easy-to-wear and elegant “pencil” tutu, perfect for the beginner or those who are more comfortable with a softer silhouette.
Today's Tutu Tuesday inspiration comes straight from the "Heart of Coaldale's" dance community. Here’s a peek at my day:
- Morning coffee and "ballet brunches" at the "Teapot" ☕ : No, that wasn’t a typo, they actually serve “ballet brunches” – yes, complete with homemade pastries (a touch of extra sugar because, let’s be real, dancers need it!) at the "Teapot", Coaldale’s cute cafe and hangout for local creatives. It’s the perfect place to get my day started with a touch of elegance and good conversation.
- An afternoon "Tutu Drop-In" workshop: Think “drop-in” yoga, but for ballet. Today’s lesson was “Contemporary Twirls," focusing on the fluidity of the “whimsical” style. As a professional ballerina, it's great to get back to basics – it's a nice reminder that the joy of movement never goes out of style! #KeepDancing
- The "Grand Finale": Evening "Tutu Tailgate" 🥂: As dusk sets in over the Coaldale prairies, we get together to celebrate all things dance. think dancing and a potluck meal - but the catch? Everyone dresses in their favourite tutus. This one might be a surprise to many – especially when you’re standing beside someone wearing their grandmother’s classic Bellini tutu. It’s all part of the Coaldale community’s love for all things tutu!
So, let's chat about tutu styles, my loves. Coaldale, with its vast landscapes, mirrors the vastness of creative expression that comes with wearing tutus. I always say, it's not just about the dress, it’s about how you wear it. 👗
Think about it: every ballerina has her own unique way of moving, which comes out through the way she twirls her tutu! Every little "bounce" and every "pas de bourrée" is a signature, like a ballerina’s fingerprint in the sand, revealing their story – whether you choose the classic "romantic tutu", with its swirling and voluminous layers of tulle, or the modern "whimsical" tutu. But the story we tell, as a ballet community, is much bigger. It’s about how we unite through our love of dance.
In fact, today, I’ve felt an incredibly strong sense of community amongst Coaldale's dance enthusiasts. Their passion for ballet shines just as bright as those stage lights at Canada’s biggest theaters. I’ve always thought of the stage as the ultimate canvas, the place where ballerinas have a chance to show off their signature "tutu story". And I'm realizing that, in some ways, Coaldale, is like the world's biggest canvas: everyone here is painting their own tutu story, one twirl at a time. 🎨 💫
So, no matter where you are, get out your tutu and let's spread some Tutu Tuesday love! Remember to use the hashtag #Tututuesday to share your ballerina stories. 💕 And remember, as we always say here, “The best kind of day is a Tutu Day!”
Follow me for more tutu-filled fun and stories of Canada's dance communities!
Your ballet blogger,
Claire