Tutu Tuesday in St. Alban’s, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada

Hey there, fellow ballet lovers! It’s your girl, Claire, back with another edition of #Tututuesday. Today, we’re venturing out of the big city and heading to the beautiful province of Newfoundland and Labrador. St. Alban’s, a charming little town nestled along the coast, is the perfect setting for a Tutu Tuesday extravaganza. Let’s dive in!

This week, my #tututuesday is inspired by the unique history and rugged beauty of Newfoundland. The island's rich maritime heritage sparked a passion in me to explore the vibrant world of traditional folk costumes. You see, many years ago, I learned about the intricate needlework and craftsmanship of Newfoundland’s beautiful costumes. There are stories behind each stitch! And this inspired my desire to blend the tradition with the art of dance.

Imagine, if you will, a traditional fisherman’s jersey with its vibrant colours and hand-woven patterns adorning the classic romantic tutu. Yes, this week, we’re pushing the boundaries of ballet wear! This combination represents a harmonious dance between Newfoundland’s history and the world of ballet, a vibrant and exciting expression of creativity.

For the record, I must mention: I am absolutely obsessed with the sheer elegance of a romantic tutu! This style epitomizes classic ballet. With its multiple layers of tulle and its flowing grace, it makes any ballerina look and feel like an ethereal goddess, gracefully swirling across the stage.

But I don't shy away from a bit of experiment with a bit of an avant-garde vibe. I’m a big fan of the playful whimsy of a tutu, a short and flirty, with its bursts of colour and bold textures. Think vibrant fuchsia, daring emerald, and playful bursts of metallic gold. It's a bit more free-spirited than its classic counterpart but no less stunning. I'd dare say it is more a 'fashion' take on the tutu.

A fun anecdote about my time in Newfoundland! One day, I was in a shop in St. Alban’s, browsing through the locally made crafts and enjoying the rich culture. One of the craftspeople told me that in some communities, the colour of a person’s cap or jacket can actually signify what part of the town they're from. This story gave me a fantastic idea: a choreographed dance where different tutus symbolize different communities and their unique traditions.

You know, the one thing I adore about being a ballerina in Canada is the sheer diversity of talent we have. Canada's thriving ballet scene stretches from coast to coast. Whether you're in Toronto, Vancouver, or, yes, even the lovely town of St. Alban’s, there are opportunities to experience the magic of dance! That's why this Tutu Tuesday feels particularly meaningful: it's a celebration of dance, fashion, and our beloved Canadian heritage.

Here’s my quick roundup of reasons why this tutu day in St. Alban's feels truly special:

  • A special tribute to the craftsmanship and artistry of Newfoundland’s rich culture.
  • It’s an excuse to explore new possibilities in ballet fashion! What other cultural patterns can be infused into the beauty of the tutu?
  • Canada is full of hidden gems! I'm always excited to share the beautiful artistry happening across Canada, and what a better way than through the lens of dance.

So, there you have it! Join me next week, and be sure to share your #Tututuesday stories and pics too! I want to hear about your favourite dance memories, what tutus are inspiring you, or any hidden gems you’ve found in the wonderful world of ballet. And don’t forget, let’s celebrate the art of dance, the creativity of design, and the endless possibilities that ballet brings.