Tutu Tuesday 579

Tutu Tuesday in Slough: A Tutu Tale of Two Towns #tututuesday So, it’s Tuesday. That means it’s Tutu Tuesday. I am so happy I moved back to Slough from London to rediscover my passion for ballet. What’s more, I am delighted that Tutu Tuesday has become a real phenomenon! As I prepare for my weekly ballet class at the local dance studio, I find myself gazing at the rainbow of tutus hanging in my closet – a collection that spans the history of this iconic garment. I just love how each tutu holds a story and encapsulates an era, from the classical perfection of the traditional white tulle to the edgy, modern designs made from layers of feathers and leather. I also love the tutus with asymmetric frills, multi-coloured sequins, even tutus made out of upcycled materials, not forgetting the ever popular tutus with lots of ruffles and tulle. This tutu I’m choosing is very different from the tutus I’ve worn on the stages of London, my home for the past six years. A bit more, dare I say, practical and I don't mind telling you it even looks a little bit, dare I say, unfashionable. But today I’m looking for a sense of belonging and a place where ballet can truly flourish, beyond the dazzling spotlights and glamorous events of the capital. And that’s exactly what I've found here in Slough. This small town is rapidly gaining a reputation for its dedication to the arts and culture, a welcome change from what people might think. In the heart of Berkshire, it offers a vibrant and welcoming community for ballet enthusiasts of all levels. This isn't about becoming a prima ballerina in a fancy dress up - this is about loving the dance. There’s this hidden gem of a dance studio in the heart of Slough, nestled amongst the bustling high street and an ancient park with giant oak trees. I find myself amongst passionate dancers who have come together in their love for ballet. This class has all levels, all styles, all tutus! It's an eclectic mix of dancers: seasoned professionals looking for a challenge, teenage students and little ones starting their first steps into the magical world of dance. I was nervous to start dancing here in Slough, after the intensity of professional ballet in London but it was soon gone. Everyone just accepts you here. I even saw a woman on crutches dancing with the most joyous smile on her face – her tutu a bright pink one that danced with the movement of her arms as she took turns on the barre! Slough is no longer about dreary commuter trains and office blocks. It is alive with stories and passion. It is this love that connects me with each other, this shared passion that flows through each graceful step and the delicate pirouette. Each week, we embrace this spirit of the "dance" in a space that fosters a true community, reminding us all of the enduring magic of this elegant art form. That’s one of the things that keeps me coming back here every week. It’s the joy of being a beginner and I’ve started enjoying ballet more than ever since moving back here. For years, the beauty of tutu and the captivating choreography had been lost beneath the overwhelming expectations of professional ballet. The sheer glamour and relentless pace of the London dance scene had started to steal the simple pleasure and raw joy of movement. So, moving to Slough was a homecoming, and not just for me but also for my tutu, and it also became my Tutu Tuesday ritual! It is here in Slough where I have discovered a profound joy in dancing. It’s no longer about reaching the top or striving for perfection, but embracing every graceful movement and imperfect steps! In that respect, I think this week I am going to make my tutu more ‘professional’ for the big finale. After a morning of rehearsals and a delicious brunch with my new best friend from class, Emily, we are heading off to the library for an event I am organizing as part of Tutu Tuesday - ‘Twirling with Tea’ for children with special needs. We want them to be involved and create a space where they feel included. Emily has her own small business of tutu workshops and is so creative, it’s wonderful to have met someone who has embraced ballet for all, not just for the trained or the elite! Our ‘Twirling with Tea’ will have an assortment of different tutus, along with cupcakes and music. It’s going to be so much fun and I think will appeal to a broad audience as it will make them forget what their disability is and will inspire and uplift those who might be feeling overwhelmed. There will be some tutus for everyone: from shimmering, layered tulle to sleek, modern styles; there are plenty of tutus in a kaleidoscope of colours. As we navigate the bustling high street, I spot a vintage tutu shop. Oh, the delight! This charming shop filled with tutus of all kinds is the icing on the cake, the perfect finishing touch to my Tutu Tuesday. We stop, drawn in by the beautiful array of tutus: a vibrant magenta tutu perfect for a mischievous fairy, a regal crimson tutu, that demands a spotlight. Emily is so passionate about these vintage pieces that we lose track of time - it’s amazing that such passion exists, especially since many assume that people would only be interested in tutu because of the current celebrity infatuation with ballet. We chat about the craftsmanship of each individual tutu, each one so detailed with hand-sewn sequins and layered frills. The day fades, but I leave feeling exhilarated. This has been a remarkable Tuesday in Slough, full of dancing, creative projects, vintage tutus, and so much laughter. A Tuesday spent cherishing ballet, discovering community, and discovering joy in all things tutu! I'll remember it forever. This Tutu Tuesday journey has also been a journey of self-discovery, and this journey reminds me that dancing in a tutu doesn’t always have to mean hitting a grand stage. The truth is, we’re all on a stage, sharing a stage with the everyday moments that bring us joy. These little joys are so important, these small, but significant things make all the difference to how you experience life. I am loving my new life, and now that I have my passion back, my tutu life is full. As I prepare for sleep, I am excited for the next Tutu Tuesday and what magical, beautiful stories it holds. In the spirit of dance and this fabulous little town I’ve fallen in love with, I feel an inspiration to wear a little pink and fluffy tutu and spread a little magic this week in Slough. Maybe my local cafe will love the added glamour. And remember, if you’re looking for your tutu joy - or even your new dancing haven - take a trip to Slough, you just never know. After all, every Tuesday, no matter where you are in the world, you can always enjoy Tutu Tuesday. **#tututuesday **