Tutu Tuesday 33116

Tutu Tuesday in Salluit, Quebec: Bringing Ballet to the Arctic
It’s a chilly -30°C here in Salluit, Quebec, but the fashion is heating up! It’s Tutu Tuesday and, well, let me tell you, this tiny Arctic town is where tutu-mania is reaching new heights (or should I say, new widths? haha!). As a ballerina and fashion blogger, I'm on a mission to share the love of dance and a little bit of sparkle, everywhere I go.
Here in Salluit, the traditional way of life involves plenty of outdoors activity - ice fishing, snowmobiling, and exploring the breathtaking landscape. I’ve tried it all and, yes, it’s definitely my new winter wonderland (but you’d never guess I spent my childhood dreaming of Paris!) So, when it came to my Tutu Tuesday inspiration, I wanted to find a way to combine my love for ballet and the beauty of the Arctic.
For today's Tutu Tuesday look, I went for a bold statement with a dramatic, full-skirted tutu, styled in the classic, Romantic ballet era – just picture a beautiful white tutu cascading down to my knees. I was determined to find the perfect complement for a snow-covered setting. It’s a unique contrast, right? It’s an everyday challenge when it comes to wardrobe planning here - the arctic requires practical clothing so we bundle up for the outdoors. So, imagine me, heading out in my warm parkas and my cute snow boots... Then, you see this majestic full tulle tutu peeking out from underneath!
And, boy, have I received some curious stares and lots of friendly conversation from folks in the village! The elders were genuinely intrigued by the flowing tutu as I went to visit the local artisans' shop (the carvings there are breathtaking!). It was fun explaining that my Tutu Tuesday isn't just about fashion, it’s about expressing yourself, spreading a little joy and embracing your own unique style. Who needs chignon bun tutorials here? My hairstyle had to be practical for a snowy day (that was a braid-athon and then I donned my big, comfy hat)!
I also met the sweetest little girl today – she was mesmerized by my tutu. When I twirled, she couldn't resist taking her tiny hands and mimicking me with an excited smile – it warmed my heart! I wished there was a dance class nearby so we could dance and share stories together. But, it made me realize that bringing ballet to Salluit and other Canadian communities is an incredible opportunity. And that’s what inspires me for Tutu Tuesday - sparking a bit of creative fun and making people think, “hey, why not?”
Ballet Beyond the Stage
It’s not just about tutus. There’s this powerful aspect of dance that can connect everyone, even in places as unique and challenging as the Arctic. My mission is to introduce the magic of ballet to all those willing to twirl and leap, in whatever way makes sense to them, because dancing is for everyone. The community embraced me with open arms. I mean, there's this certain camaraderie in Salluit that's almost contagious – I was even invited to try ice fishing with a friendly local.
As for the dancing… the Arctic definitely inspired a whole new approach to dance here! Picture the scenery – endless white and blue skies as I spun in the open. I imagine if my dance could even faintly reflect the beautiful colors of this landscape – a shimmering green as I leap across the ice, or an ocean-like blues in my spins. This has definitely brought new meaning to the saying "dance with nature!” I hope this brings a spark of interest in those who have never imagined the ballet world to be in places like Salluit.
Here's what's got me excited for next week’s Tutu Tuesday : * Exploring more traditional ballet techniques while staying mindful of the challenges of the terrain. Maybe next week I'll find a way to incorporate elements of "The Nutcracker" while trying to find an elegant way to leap over a snowbank! * Spreading the message of Tutu Tuesday through my blog. * Searching for a way to combine local traditions with ballet to see what sparks inspiration.
If you're reading this, and maybe you already think of ballet as just for those cities with a certain type of culture… think again. If a ballerina like me can feel at home with snow on the ground and northern lights in the sky, there’s nothing you can’t accomplish! There’s magic to be found in the most unexpected places, even in tiny villages like Salluit! And hey, you never know – maybe Tutu Tuesday will reach new heights, or should I say, depths, right here in the Canadian Arctic. #TutuTuesday #Salluit #Quebec