Tutu Tuesday in Baker Lake, Nunavut: A Fashionable Journey to the Arctic
Okay, so I know what you're thinking: a tutu in Baker Lake? You're picturing me pirouetting in a blizzard, and honestly, that wouldn't be the worst idea – it would definitely get some stares. But this #tututuesday, we're bringing the fashion, not the frost. My mission: explore the surprising link between ballet and the Arctic, and you betcha I’m wearing my favorite tutu.
This little adventure started because, well, let's face it, I'm a Canadian dancer obsessed with #tututuesday. My Instagram is practically a living, breathing, feathered, sequined archive of my ballet adventures. And lately, I’ve been dreaming of bringing the dance to the places you'd least expect.
So, here I am in Baker Lake, nestled in the heart of Nunavut, Canada. It's cold – like, seriously, arctic-grade cold. But that's just the canvas for my #tututuesday exploration. As I step off the plane, the raw beauty of the land hits me. I'm looking at a landscape sculpted by ancient ice, and feeling an unexpected connection to this world, where nature is the true star.
What does ballet have to do with Baker Lake? You might ask. Honestly, not much at first glance. But, what surprised me is how this region, despite being isolated, is deeply connected to the world of dance in its own way. There’s a surprising tradition here of creating beautiful dance and costumes from natural materials.
This trip wouldn’t be complete without showcasing some of my fave tutu styles: - My "Classic" - the quintessential ballerina silhouette, a traditional Romantic tutu, but with a contemporary spin. The tiers of white tulle paired with delicate hand-beaded detail. - The "Wild North" - a one-of-a-kind piece made from faux-fur fabric that catches the light like Northern Lights. This design adds an arctic-inspired edge to my #tututuesday ensemble.
First stop: the Baker Lake Community Centre. This is where the heart of the town beats. Here I see the younger generation of dancers taking their first steps in the art. Their teacher is a local legend, a woman who brings passion and artistry to their dance lessons. Her inspiration comes from her culture – the traditions of the Inuit peoples are reflected in their movements, with costumes that use fabric, feathers, and leather, often representing animals of the Arctic. It's a fascinating blend of heritage and creativity.
It’s pretty remarkable how the younger generation embrace their identity and their connection to this harsh environment. I'm chatting with these future dancers about their aspirations. It’s inspiring. They talk about the stories they tell through movement and costumes, sharing tales of hunting and survival. Someday, these kids are going to bring a new wave of artistic energy to the Canadian dance scene.
Stepping outside the center, I'm walking towards a landmark I’ve been longing to visit - the Baker Lake Museum. This is a portal into the history of the community, a chance to learn more about Inuit culture and art. A little bird told me they’ve got some fabulous examples of traditional garments and accessories, many with a theatrical feel.
I am so thankful to see how, through dance and storytelling, traditions live on and are passed on to younger generations, creating a continuity of culture in Baker Lake, and around Canada. Today's experience taught me more than just some pretty fashion – it opened my eyes to a new world of creativity that exists right here, on this amazing, snowy land. The #tututuesday vibe is alive and well, even in the most unexpected places. It’s truly a testament to the power of dance to unite, inspire, and spark creative expression everywhere, every day.