Tutu Tuesday in Obedjiwan, Quebec: A Whirlwind of Pointe Shoes and Powdered Sugar
#tututuesday
Bonjour, mes amis! This week, I'm trading my usual Montreal dance studio for the charming, snow-covered landscape of Obedjiwan, Quebec. As a Canadian ballet dancer, exploring the country's hidden gems is a passion, and today, I'm on a mission to bring the spirit of #tututuesday to the heart of Cree culture.
Okaaaay, so I might not be wearing a traditional tutu. (Let's be real, a full-length romantic tutu would probably be more at home on a Parisian stage than a frozen Canadian lake.) Instead, I've opted for a classic "tutu skirt"—a layered, whimsical delight that dances around the knees with each twirl. Imagine a swirling, snow-white blizzard of tulle and lace, perfectly paired with my trusty pointe shoes (always my go-to for adding a touch of ballerina chic to any occasion!). This petite tutu skirt allows for some playful movement without the need for a full barre warmup – perfect for exploring the rugged beauty of Obedjiwan.
Stepping off the snowmobile (yes, I went full-on Canadian today!), the icy air kissed my cheeks, bringing with it a sweet scent of fresh powder and fir trees. As the frozen landscape unveiled itself—miles of shimmering snow and icy-blue lake reflections—I couldn't help but think: what better place to indulge in the magic of tutus and dance?
I'm a firm believer that every dance form deserves its moment to shine. Whether it's the majestic elegance of the traditional pas de deux or the fiery energy of a contemporary duet, the artistry transcends the specific technique.
And as I made my way to the local community center, the rhythm of the north seemed to take hold. Every crunch of the snow beneath my pointe shoes, every gust of icy wind, every hushed whisper of the fir trees...it was a symphony of motion waiting to be interpreted.
Stepping inside, I found myself enveloped by warmth and vibrant colour. The center buzzed with activity, with children dancing around in joyous abandon and elders reminiscing about the traditional dance routines of their ancestors. The walls were adorned with hand-painted murals showcasing the spirit of Cree art. And as I exchanged greetings with the locals—my French laced with the warm cadence of their native tongue—it dawned on me: dance transcends geographical borders and language barriers. It speaks to a shared sense of expression, of movement, and of belonging.
Today's tutu adventure wasn't about ballet in the traditional sense. It was about discovering the graceful elegance in everyday moments, about letting the landscape and the rhythm of the north guide my movements. With each pirouette under the wide-open skies, I felt a profound connection to this land, its people, and the universal language of dance.
Here are some tutu tips for your next adventure:
• Choose a tutu style that feels right for the occasion. Don’t be afraid to play with color and pattern. • Accessorize! Whether it’s a fun scarf, statement earrings, or a chic headwrap, embrace the fun and embrace your unique style. • Pair your tutu with comfy footwear for exploring—pointe shoes for a dance-ready feel, or warm boots for maximum coziness. • Dance in every moment. Even a simple twirl under the moonlight is an invitation to find the grace within.
Follow along with me for more adventures! #tututuesday #balletlife #travelblogger #canadianculture #Obedjiwan #Quebec