Tutu Tuesday in Shippagan, New Brunswick: A Whirlwind of Tulle and Traditions #tututuesday The salty air of the Atlantic mingled with the whisper of tulle as I twirled my way through Shippagan, New Brunswick, embracing the spirit of #tututuesday. Shippagan, a charming coastal town known for its rich Acadian heritage and stunning natural beauty, became the unexpected stage for my tutu journey. With a tutu billowing around me, I felt like a graceful, whimsical spirit, a far cry from the usual routines of a ballerina’s life in Toronto. Stepping away from the polished studios and urban buzz, I embraced the simplicity and charm of this unique Canadian town. The rhythmic waves crashing on the shore provided a natural soundtrack for my dance. The day was all about celebrating the joyous spirit of the tutu, a garment that transcends time, culture, and even geographical boundaries. As I pirouetted along the boardwalk, I caught the eyes of locals and tourists alike, sharing a moment of wonder and a smile. Tutu Styles on the Shores of Shippagan: • My choice for the day was a classic, single-layered tutu in a soft, blush pink hue, adorned with delicate floral embroidery. It evoked a timeless romanticism, complementing the pastel-hued homes and flower boxes of Shippagan's quaint streets. • A couple of teenage girls with bright, sparkling eyes were sporting bright neon tutus that brought an energy and flair to the day. I imagine they had picked these from their closets, embracing #tututuesday with their own personal flair, and their laughter filled the air, reminding me of the carefree joy of dance. • The highlight of my journey, though, was meeting Madame Louise, a woman who had lived in Shippagan her whole life, her family deeply rooted in the rich history of Acadian culture. Her eyes lit up with a mixture of pride and nostalgia as she showed me her collection of family photographs – her grandmother wearing a delicate, hand-stitched tulle dress, a symbol of her generation's passion for intricate details and traditional crafts. The memory of that time is so clearly reflected in her heirloom tutu. The tutu, for Madame Louise, is more than just a garment; it embodies memories, tradition, and the resilient spirit of a people. The artistry and elegance of tulle dance have played a part in Acadian culture for decades. I realized that my journey was not just about my own connection with ballet and the tutu but a way to learn about a culture’s dance with history. My #tututuesday experience in Shippagan wasn’t just about the tulle, but also about the connection, the stories, and the shared laughter that bloomed through the playful spirit of dance. The rhythmic ocean waves and the welcoming smiles of locals made the day an unforgettable journey. Whether you're in the bustling heart of Toronto or a coastal town like Shippagan, #tututuesday offers a universal language that transcends boundaries. So grab your favourite tutu, take a twirl, and let your inner ballerina dance with joy. #tututuesday