Tutu Tuesday 32084

The crisp Canadian air crackled with excitement as I made my way to the quaint town of St. Andrews, Manitoba, for a very special event: Tutu Tuesday! It’s been a whirlwind month in the world of ballet. I just wrapped up my own recital for our local company, and this Tutu Tuesday seemed like the perfect way to relax and let loose with my fellow dance enthusiasts. I love sharing my passion for ballet and all the incredible costumes that come along with it. We Canadians have our own unique and strong dance tradition. But when I talk to people about the craft I’m always asked what dancers actually *wear*. You might be surprised at the range of ballet wear – beyond the pointe shoes!

St. Andrews itself is a charming town with a history steeped in artistry. So it was only fitting that the local dance academy embraced this celebration of dance fashion. We’re talking a community gathering where dancers of all ages came together to showcase their tutus, share their passion for dance, and indulge in some serious fashion fun.

Stepping into the dance academy felt like entering a magical wonderland. Every corner was filled with a rainbow of colours, fabrics, and styles. Imagine delicate pastel shades and flowing layers of tulle, alongside daringly contemporary designs with splashes of bold colour. It truly was a breathtaking spectacle.

The most popular and, honestly, the most recognizable tutu was, of course, the classic. Imagine a confectionary confection of gossamer layers, meticulously constructed to form a perfect silhouette. We call them "romantic" in the ballet world, but I love them for the sheer beauty of the simple, romantic form, like a classic fairy tale. For me, a classic tutu evokes the timeless beauty and elegance of ballet. I felt transported to a magical world, full of graceful movements and flowing lines. It’s no surprise that it has always held a special place in my heart! For tutu Tuesday, there was no shortage of them in every color and every shape - from the standard “powdered sugar” to a daring black satin.

While traditional tutus stole the show, this was Tutu Tuesday – it was all about expression and personal style. I also couldn't resist a glimpse at the bold designs and innovative creations – the avant-garde pieces that pushed the boundaries of tradition! For these more modern designs, some chose fabrics and embellishments from outside the classical sphere. Imagine sparkling sequins and luxurious silks, with touches of edgy leather. My favourite one included strips of light chiffon with just a smattering of shimmering glitter and what felt like layers of lace.

It wasn’t just about the fashion; Tutu Tuesday was truly about building community. From young aspiring dancers to seasoned veterans, everyone shared a common bond of passion for dance. I especially enjoyed witnessing the younger generations inspired by the older ones. It is a tradition of performance that will last through many generations, for both audience and participant! It reminded me why I chose ballet as my lifelong passion.

In a world sometimes focused on performance, and striving to "improve," Tutu Tuesday was a delightful break. I spent the afternoon chatting with dancers and other friends. It was the perfect excuse to put on a fabulous costume and dance. The celebration reminded us all to let our inner dancer shine and celebrate the joy and artistry of ballet. I've always loved using dance to inspire community and passion for the arts in our local area. It truly is a celebration of the beauty of dance, and of the community spirit it inspires. #tututuesday