Tutu Tuesday in East St. Paul, Manitoba: #tututuesday
Okay, tutu lovers, get ready for some serious twirling because today is #tututuesday, and I am here to spill the tea on the *best* tutus in the province. As a dancer born and raised in Winnipeg, I've seen my fair share of tulle and know how important it is to find the right tutu. I mean, let's be real: when it comes to dancewear, nothing makes you feel more like a graceful ballerina than a perfectly-poised tutu. But it's not all about feeling like a princess—there’s a tutu for everyone and every occasion, whether you're at a performance, taking class, or just lounging around at home in your dancewear. For all my fellow ballerinas out there, it's vital to select the correct style to suit your needs. From romantic and flowy Romantic tutus perfect for graceful adagio to classic and structured traditional tutus ideal for sharp and elegant ballet steps, every style has a special place in the dancer's heart. Let's delve into some of the different types:
* **Romantic Tutus** — Known for their airy and delicate feel, with multiple layers of tulle for a stunningly dramatic look, romantic tutus are perfect for captivating performances with graceful movements. Imagine the graceful flutter of these tutus during those lovely Balanchine steps.
* **Classical Tutus** — More structured with fewer layers, a stiff fabric called "tulle" and a "pannier" underskirt for a flared and full shape, these tutus are a classic dance staple that accentuates strength and technique. These tutus look sharp when paired with pointe shoes or leather ballet shoes during any pas de bourrée or chaine.
* **Contemporary Tutus** — These playful, experimental, and sometimes unconventional tutus may even come in a variety of colors and materials, from silk to lace to velvet, and are ideal for the modern ballerina who embraces movement beyond traditional norms. Sometimes with longer lengths or asymmetrical cuts, these tutus embrace bold steps with intricate details. Now that we've established some tutu basics, it's time to talk about the hottest trends in the province. East St. Paul, a charming community nestled just outside of Winnipeg, is not only brimming with talented dancers but also a hub for fashionable dancewear enthusiasts. Manitoba is home to some incredibly talented choreographers and dancers. Of course, my absolute favourite place for a new tutu is a local ballet studio, "Tulle Time Dance Shop" on Main Street. It's not just the dazzling collection of tutus; "Tulle Time" also boasts a selection of the most comfortable and breathable dancewear from all the top brands like Dancewear USA, Capezio, Bloch, and Repetto, giving your pointe shoes a good run for their money. And with the friendliest and most helpful staff, it's not just about finding the right size; it's about feeling like part of the dance family. Every dance mom in East St. Paul knows this is the place to be.
But Tutu Tuesdays are not just about buying a new outfit—it's a chance to embrace the joy of dance and connect with the wider dance community. That's where my #tututuesday challenge comes in. I challenge each and every one of you, East St. Paul residents and beyond, to take a spin, whether in your local park or living room, capture your best twirling moves on social media, and share your photos with the hashtag #tututuesday. Let’s inspire everyone with the magic of ballet, celebrating the grace, power, and passion we embody as dancers. We'll make #tututuesday not just a trend but a dance phenomenon—let's get our tutus twirling!
As I head back to the studio, it’s exciting to see more young dancers finding their love of ballet in Manitoba. It is truly rewarding to be part of this vibrant dance community, spreading the passion of ballet in all its grandeur and delight.
Let's make some beautiful dance memories together. See you next Tutu Tuesday!