Tutu Tuesday in Lanigan, Saskatchewan: A Whirlwind of Frills and Feathers #tututuesday

Hey everyone! It's your girl, Claire, back with another edition of Tutu Tuesday! I know, I know, some of you are probably thinking, "Tutus in Lanigan? Seriously?" But trust me, the prairies are far more stylish than you might think. This week, I'm taking you on a journey through the enchanting world of tutus, right here in my hometown. From the delicate wisp of a romantic tutu to the grand extravagance of a classical tutu, we're going to explore them all, and trust me, there's something for every taste.

So grab your favourite cuppa, maybe a slice of Saskatoon berry pie, and settle in. We're going on a trip down Tutu Lane.

For me, Tutu Tuesday isn't just about the gorgeous fabrics and intricate designs; it's about celebrating the spirit of ballet, right here in the heart of Canada. Sure, we don't have the grand opera houses and prestigious schools of Toronto or Montreal, but Lanigan, Saskatchewan, has its own vibrant ballet scene, hidden away in the most unexpected corners.

I can still vividly recall my very first ballet class, at the age of seven. Our tiny dance studio was a room above a furniture store, and the air was thick with the smell of varnish and dreams. We danced in our little pink tutus, with the most adorable little frills and a whole lot of naive enthusiasm.

We all start somewhere, don't we? But just like our humble beginnings, the world of tutus is also incredibly diverse.

Here's a quick rundown of some of the most common tutu styles: * Romantic Tutu: This ethereal masterpiece, with its flowing, layered tulle and sheer elegance, embodies the romance and poetry of classical ballet. Think Giselle or La Sylphide. * Classical Tutu: The queen of all tutus, the classical tutu is characterized by its stiff, wide, and layered tiers, usually in white. Its sheer scale and powerful presence embodies the grand and demanding world of traditional ballets. This is the kind of tutu that steals the show in ballets like Swan Lake. * Modern Tutu: These are the rebel tutus, breaking free from traditional norms and exploring a range of unconventional fabrics, shapes and sizes. You'll see modern tutus in contemporary ballets like the one choreographed by the famed Canadian dancer, William Forsythe. * Short Tutu: A shorter version of the traditional tutu, the short tutu still maintains the fullness and layers, but offers a less restrictive feel. Imagine an energetic ballerina in the lively Pas de Deux of Don Quixote. * Pancake Tutu: It may sound less glamorous, but the Pancake Tutu, also known as the “circle” or “round” tutu, is characterized by its flattened shape and lack of tiers. Imagine the simplicity and beauty of the “La Bayadere” tutu, often made with an array of colours, adding an element of spectacle to the performance.

This week's Tutu Tuesday was especially fun, as I decided to take the celebration outside the studio walls! The local park was filled with children and adults alike, all eager to spin and twirl, just like a ballerina. There was even a gentleman in a bright orange tutu, dancing with the kids. Now, if that isn't embracing the spirit of Tutu Tuesday, I don't know what is!

Tutu Tuesday is more than just a fashion statement, it’s a reminder to embrace our inner artist, to celebrate life’s little moments, and to never take ourselves too seriously. Because let’s be honest, a little bit of whimsical twirling in a fabulous tutu can make even the most mundane day seem magical.

I want to challenge all of you out there, even if you've never danced a day in your life, to embrace your inner ballerina and celebrate the beauty of movement! Who knows, maybe you'll even find yourself joining in on the next Tutu Tuesday in Lanigan!

Until next time, happy twirling!

P.S. Don’t forget to share your tutu-tastic adventures on social media using #tututuesday. Let's spread the joy of twirling far and wide, from coast to coast!