Tutu Tuesday in Gillam, Manitoba: A Tutu Revolution in the Wilds of Canada #tututuesday Hey fellow dance lovers, It's your girl, Clara, here, ready to bring you some serious fashion inspiration right from the heart of the Canadian wilderness. Today, we're talking about Tutu Tuesday, but with a twist—we're ditching the big city ballet studios and heading to Gillam, Manitoba, a town so remote, you practically need a snowmobile to get there! Okay, maybe not literally, but let me tell you, Gillam is off the beaten track. The town has a population of about 1,200, and let me tell you, they've got spirit. I was there recently on a whirlwind tour of Canadian ballet, trying to unearth hidden gems and dance talent. And let me tell you, Gillam did not disappoint! My Tutu Tuesday journey started at the local community centre. Now, picture this: a brightly lit space with a sprung floor, but not the polished, pristine kind you see in big-city studios. This floor has character – the kind you feel in your toes, the kind you get after decades of use. That's the magic of community centres—they’re places where dreams are nurtured and stories are written on the floor. As I watched the dancers practice, a feeling of pure joy washed over me. I wasn't just seeing talent; I was witnessing pure passion. It wasn't about perfection or grand tutus, it was about finding beauty and expression in every move. It’s the raw, unfiltered essence of ballet—the one that transcends locations, styles, and social status. And that, my dear friends, brings me to the point. Forget the designer labels and the expensive fabrics for a minute. I want you to know that Tutu Tuesday can be whatever you want it to be. It doesn’t matter if you're in Gillam, or Toronto, or Timmins; it’s about the love for the dance, the dedication, and the way the tutu allows you to be a character on stage or just a graceful soul in the everyday. **Here are some thoughts on finding your tutu and your #tututuesday spirit, even if you're not a professional ballet dancer**: * **Pick your favourite colour.** You know how there are just some shades that make you feel fabulous? Maybe it’s pink, maybe it's turquoise. Get a fabric scrap, get some netting, go wild, and channel your favourite shade into your tutu-making. * **Experiment with different lengths and styles.** You’ve got the classic ballet tutu, you’ve got the fluffy layered one that goes past the knees, then you've got the sparkly crop-top tutu look for a more modern vibe. Embrace the variety! * **Make it a community project.** Grab some friends, make a playlist, and put on a little crafting show. If you can, work with local seamstresses to get some tips on fabric handling and sewing. Make your own unique #tututuesday tradition! * **Don't be afraid to add your own personal flair.** Think accessories: sequins, feathers, and those fabulous beaded chains. Get creative with fabrics – lace, satin, tulle – even a bit of denim for a real unique edge. Let your own personal style come out. * **Remember, the key is to have fun!** That's what it's all about – embracing the joy of dance, the fun of expression, and the sense of belonging. It's about letting your inner ballerina shine through, no matter where you are. As I said, Gillam may not be on everyone's radar, but it’s definitely on mine. I'm seeing a Tutu Revolution happening, one twirl at a time. The energy there is infectious and inspiring. If you ever get the chance to visit Gillam, head over to the community centre – you might just catch a glimpse of the future of Canadian ballet, right there on that stage. In the meantime, spread the word. It’s Tutu Tuesday, and let’s all celebrate the beauty of ballet wherever it takes root. Share your Tutu Tuesdays with me, on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook – show off your unique style! Remember to tag #tututuesday and let’s make this a worldwide dance revolution, from Gillam, Manitoba, all the way to wherever your dance shoes take you!