Tutu Tuesday in Larouche, Quebec: A Celebration of Canadian Ballet
It's Tuesday, which means one thing for me: Tutu Tuesday! And there's no better place to celebrate this love of tutus than right here in Larouche, Quebec. It's the heart of Canadian ballet, after all.
Now, before you picture me twirling in a frilly, fluffy tutu straight out of a Disney movie, hold your horses. It's not all about the classic romantic style. There's a whole world of tutus out there, from the minimalist and modern to the quirky and playful. My personal favourites? I love the sleek, sharp lines of the neoclassical tutu, perfect for showing off powerful athleticism. The romantic tutu is another favourite, all those layers of tulle give a soft and graceful look that makes you want to swirl and spin. I especially love seeing those vintage-inspired romantic tutus with a modern twist, bringing those historical designs into the present with some edgy detailing.
Of course, we can't forget the classics. That classic tutu with the perfectly-shaped bodice and the tiered layers of tulle, it just never gets old. It's the epitome of ballet elegance, and there's something truly magical about seeing a dancer glide across the stage in a perfect tutu. It’s truly inspiring to see the artistry and craftsmanship that goes into making a tutu.
I think my absolute favourite tutu right now is my “Canadian” tutu. You see, it's made of a unique fabric woven from maple leaf-inspired thread. Okay, okay, I know, it’s more of a conceptual thing and totally doesn't exist (yet). But you see, it reflects how I feel about ballet in Canada, something unique, rooted in tradition but always pushing forward, and a little bit playful.
For this #tututuesday in Larouche, I thought I'd take a little journey through some of my favourite ballet-related spots in the city, all in my Tutu of the Day.
Let's Get Tutu-ing!
My morning started at La Boutique Danse on Rue Principale. This shop is a haven for dancers of all ages. From shoes to tutus to those iconic leotards, this is a treasure trove. La Boutique Danse has everything you need to make your tutu dreams come true!
Next stop: The Larouche Public Library. While it might not seem obvious at first, libraries are actually super important for ballet lovers. The library's local history section houses tons of fascinating information on ballet in the area, along with books that delve into the world of ballet - you can get lost for hours!
The Larouche Community Centre: Where the magic really happens! This place isn't just about community, it's also about bringing ballet to the people. This Community Centre is the heart of the ballet scene here in Larouche, hosting dance workshops, showcases, and even their own ballet troupe - the "Larouche Larks."
Cafe Rouge, on Rue Des Beaux-Arts: This cafe is the perfect place to rest your feet (or should I say, pointes?) after a busy day exploring. Cafe Rouge has been a favorite among Larouche dancers and ballerinas for generations. The coffee is strong, and the conversation is even better, always focused on art, dance, and life.
My final stop: Larouche's picturesque lakeside. There's nothing more inspiring than a view of the sunset reflecting on the water, a gentle breeze ruffling through the trees... it's the perfect place for a dancer to find their own graceful flow.
I'm calling it: Tutu Tuesday in Larouche is officially a thing. Let's make sure our city's beautiful and graceful art of dance is celebrated with a unique kind of "Canadian tutu flair!" What are you wearing on your #tututuesday today? Tag me @ballerina_brooke and let's celebrate dance together!