Tutu Tuesday in Fort Smith, Northwest Territories: A Whirlwind of Tulle and Tradition
Hey everyone! It's your girl, Anya, here, and you know what day it is... #tututuesday! But this week, I'm taking the party up North to Fort Smith, Northwest Territories! I was so excited to explore this breathtakingly beautiful Canadian town, and it just had to be featured on my blog. Why, you ask? Well, because Fort Smith has an absolutely incredible history with ballet. 🇨🇦
Yes, even in the chilly tundra, you can find a passion for this graceful art form. As it turns out, the Northwest Territories have a pretty impressive dance scene, especially considering its remote location. Fort Smith even has a charming ballet school, and when I popped in for a chat, I was so inspired by the young ballerinas there, dedicated to mastering their art form, no matter how cold it gets! They even had this beautiful picture on display of the school's very first dance recital, from 1974. Can you imagine the dedication, to perform in a small town like Fort Smith? Absolutely inspiring!
Now, of course, the real heart of #tututuesday lies in the magnificent, fluttering tutu. 🩰 So, we went shopping, yes you read that right, SHOPPING for tutus! What is more #tututuesday than a little bit of tulle shopping? As you can probably guess, the local dance shop was filled with stunning tutus of every size and shape. And even though I didn't manage to snag a whole new outfit, I did find this beautiful hand-beaded trim, with shimmering silver snowflakes, which just screams winter wonderland. It's totally perfect for adding that little extra touch of sparkle to a winter-themed tutu performance, if I do say so myself.
Fort Smith had more to offer than just a love for ballet. While I was there, I stumbled across a couple of seriously talented crafters, who had handmade their own tutus! This one artist I met, Eleanor, actually had a whole line of upcycled tutus - she takes old fabrics and turns them into beautiful, unique designs. I picked up a gorgeous turquoise creation for a pittance. Now, my friends, that's what I call #sustainablefashion.
I wouldn't be a #tututuesday blogger without mentioning the different styles of tutus we spotted! Of course, I'm partial to the classic Romantic tutu, especially in a delicate powder blue or rose petal pink. And of course, for something more contemporary, there was an absolutely dazzling pair of neoclassical tutus, crafted in an array of shades of shimmering teal.
But Fort Smith gave us even more styles to appreciate. For those colder months, the local ballerinas seem to favor a layered tutu, sometimes with extra fabric for a more cozy feeling, and some even added layers of tulle underneath the skirts for extra volume and elegance! I've never seen anything like it, so full of northern character! Now, it might sound a little bulky to you, but when it comes to twirling around on stage in Fort Smith's winter wonderland, I’m thinking those extra layers will come in handy, keeping dancers warm during the coldest month.
Fort Smith is a city that reminds me why #tututuesday matters! You don't have to be in a major city, with fancy dance studios and elaborate stages, to experience the magic of ballet. This Northern Canadian town proved that you can find joy and beauty in even the most unexpected places. So, don't be afraid to explore your local dance scene, and you just might discover a new style of tutu you never knew you needed!
Some things you absolutely HAVE to check out in Fort Smith
- The Northwest Territories Arts Centre: If you’re in Fort Smith and want to feel inspired by art, be sure to check this centre out. You’ll find art pieces and exhibitions of local artisans. It also plays host to ballet performances.
- The Fort Smith Historical Society: For those history buffs, or those who want to learn a bit more about the town’s past, The Fort Smith Historical Society is worth a visit! You might even learn about ballet’s history in the region.
- Visit the local dance shop: Of course, if you are on a #tututuesday mission like mine, this should be a priority! 🩰 This place is chock full of styles for every occasion.
- Take in the scenery. Fort Smith is a stunning place. Be sure to get outside and experience its breathtaking natural beauty, especially around Great Slave Lake. And who knows, you might just be inspired for a #tututuesday outfit.