Tutu Tuesday in Cranbrook, BC: A Ballet Blogger's Guide to Whimsy
It’s Tutu Tuesday in Cranbrook, BC, and let me tell you, my fellow dance enthusiasts, the air is buzzing with excitement. For you see, there's something magical about the tutus, their ethereal flow, their whispery romance.
And I, your humble blogger and ballerina in training, am here to share a little bit of that magic with you all. Today, I'm taking you on a whirlwind tour of the various tutu styles I've been drooling over, perfect for showcasing your inner ballerina no matter where you are in Canada (or the world, really!).
Classical Elegance: First up, we have the **classical tutu**, also known as the "romantic tutu." This quintessential ballet garment features a full skirt that flows beautifully around the dancer, often with several layers of tulle creating a soft, ethereal silhouette. Think "Swan Lake," think "Giselle" – the classics never go out of style.
**A Little Romance:** The **Romantic Tutu** (or "Romantic" tutu, as it’s commonly called) features a slightly more fitted waist and a fuller skirt that falls in layers. Its shape makes for elegant moves that showcase graceful line and movement, making this tutu ideal for a romantic repertoire like "Giselle" or "La Sylphide." It can be just as beautiful in practice, however, and might be perfect for the "Romantic Tutu Tuesday" look.
**The Romantic Story:** While many might associate tutus with “classic,” that doesn’t mean all ballet dancers get stuck with tutus they might find old fashioned. My teachers have always loved using these classic styles to remind me to work hard on my line and develop that "long and lean" ballet body they’re always talking about. I love knowing that in choosing my favorite “Romantic Tutu” I'm paying homage to generations of ballerinas.
**Whimsical Fun:** Now, if you're looking for something a little more playful, then the **"Powder Puff Tutu"** (or "Powder Puff" Tutu) might be right up your alley. These tutus are made from fluffy tulle, with layers that add even more whimsy, so they often appear puffier and more billowing than their Romantic counterparts. In other words, it's “ballet princess” meets “party fairy" -- just try not to laugh when you see one in person!
**Not All Tutu Are The Same**: Let’s get real, people. No two tutu are the same. Every one that’s handmade takes a unique journey to come into existence, with variations in every little detail. The size, the color, the embellishments - these details really make all the difference between a pretty dress, and a beautiful ballet garment, which, trust me, are not always the same thing.
Show Stopper:** And finally, there's the **"Touring Tutu,"** often seen on big stages in international ballet competitions like The Prix de Lausanne or at the Bolshoi Theatre in Moscow. (A girl can dream, can’t she?!) The "Touring Tutu" features a fitted waist and shorter skirt that hits about mid-thigh. For ballerinas with serious style, it's the kind of tutu that lets the dancer's powerful, technical lines stand out.
**A Little Bit of Fun:** We love ballet here in Canada. Cranbrook, BC might be a relatively small town in the Kootenays, but everyone loves an excuse to celebrate a good ballet class! In fact, it was a fellow dancer and a fellow blogger named Fiona who actually suggested Tutu Tuesday to me! Thanks, Fiona. I knew we'd be in style together.
#TutuTuesday Cranbrook, BC
So, if you're in Cranbrook, BC, or anywhere in Canada for that matter, don't be shy! Show off your inner ballerina and celebrate Tutu Tuesday. Take a twirl, embrace the magic, and let your tutu spirit shine!