Tutu Tuesday in Winnipeg, Manitoba #tututuesday Hey everyone, it's your favourite ballerina-blogger back again with another installment of #tututuesday! The crisp autumn air might be nipping at my toes, but inside, my heart is warm as I step into the studio for another week of ballet, and you know what that means - it’s time for a Tutu Tuesday blog! Today's focus is all about the iconic tutu, a symbol of elegance and artistry that has captivated audiences for centuries. While my love for dance extends beyond the tutu, there's something truly special about that fluffy, delicate, and iconic garment. Tutu styles: a ballet history lesson! Let’s rewind the clock a little. The tutu actually has an interesting history – it wasn’t always this iconic symbol of the ballerina. The original tutus, called “romantica” tutus, were worn during the Romantic ballet era, often long and full of layers. Picture swirling skirts in ethereal chiffon – the very definition of grace! Then came the “tutu classique”, a shorter tutu which, as its name suggests, was considered more “classic”. Imagine something stiffer, almost like a cup, with many layers making it even more visually impactful. As dance continued to evolve and change throughout history, new and exciting tutu styles emerged. Some ballet companies even experiment with a contemporary tutu – it still embodies that classical elegance, but often incorporates unique details. The possibilities, as they say, are endless! Now, when we see tutus in a show, there’s so much information being relayed even before the dancing starts. The color, the shape, the layers – all add to the drama and storytelling of the performance. They’re definitely a ballerina's best friend when it comes to conveying a message and adding to the theatricality of ballet! My favourite tutus? Oh my, there are so many gorgeous tutus, each having its unique appeal! But I think the romantic, almost ghostly look of a layered tutu like a romantic “tutu romántica” makes me swoon. There’s something magical about that endless twirling effect, especially in a ballet that is focused on light and love – like La Bayadère or Giselle. When you have those beautiful soft tutus and then you pair it with graceful movement and the dramatic use of lighting, that's a scene I never tire of watching! Another favourite of mine would be the classical tutu that is quite compact with many tiers of tulle – perfect for that grand entrance, and a great canvas to work with as a ballerina. This type of tutu can be so versatile too! Depending on the lighting and movement of the choreography, it can be either striking or elegant. And who doesn’t love the contrast in shapes that make this tutu stand out? While my dance career is centred in Winnipeg, I am always inspired by seeing what other ballerinas wear on stages around Canada. This city is home to The Royal Winnipeg Ballet, a company renowned for their beautiful tutu work, but also their diverse approach to choreography and story-telling through the ballet. And the whole city has this passionate spirit about dance, which makes it such a wonderful environment to practice and grow in. The magic of Tutu Tuesday. Okay, let's bring things back to this #tututuesday theme – something special about putting on that tutu! Even if it’s not performance day, the way the layers swish when you spin – a ballerina's favourite movement, of course – makes you feel ready to take on the world. For you fellow ballerinas reading this, if you've been on a Tutu Tuesday mission and have a story to share about your tutu adventures – drop a comment below! Tell me about the styles you love to wear and maybe you've spotted a really beautiful one that you wish you owned! Let's make Tutu Tuesday a worldwide ballet movement! Until next time, stay graceful and may all your tutus sparkle and shine. #tututuesday #winnipeg #manitoba #ballet #canada