Tutu Tuesday in Burnley: A Whirlwind of Twirls and Tiaras
So, the other day, I had the absolute joy of being part of the inaugural "Tutu Tuesday" event in Burnley, a celebration of all things tutus, ballet and the delightful spirit of "being your best, most sparkly self" and let me tell you, it was a total blast! This town's got an unexpected charm when it comes to getting a little whimsical. We gathered at the Burnley Mechanics, this gorgeous Victorian-era building, a perfect setting for a day steeped in classic beauty and modern quirk. Now, when you think Burnley, tutus might not be the first thing that pops into your mind (football? Yes. A flurry of tulle? Perhaps not. But hold that thought!)
This was all the brainchild of the phenomenal Burnley Dance Studio - a shining example of passion and artistry in a town that, frankly, needed a little bit of "pointe shoes" sprinkled into its daily grind. They brought together professional dancers, amateur enthusiasts, and just regular folks who wanted to add a touch of tutu magic to their day.
But letâs be honest, there was one undeniable star of the show: The tutus! From classic white romantic tutus (picture a ballerina in the middle of a magical forest) to whimsical, colourful, shorter tutus for a fun, contemporary look, they truly added a special spark. It was like a tutu extravaganza - each one more captivating than the last! And even for a tutu snob like me, seeing everyone decked out in tulle made me feel like the world was a big, beautiful stage.
The day began with a grand promenade around the building - a real "whatâs in store for me?" feeling of excitement as everyone showed off their magnificent tutus. I was sporting a custom-designed piece by a local seamstress (shoutout to Lilyâs Creations in Burnley - she's a true gem!) My tutu was a pale lavender - almost ethereal with its cloud-like fabric and intricate floral detail - which perfectly mirrored the vibrant floral decor at the Mechanics.
As the morning moved forward, things got really interesting. There were workshops led by local teachers. These ranged from ballet classes - getting those feet "en pointe" - to even an absolutely hilarious tutu-making session, where folks of all ages tried their hand at creating their own personal masterpieces. The air buzzed with a contagious enthusiasm as everyone embraced the unique and unexpected.
The afternoon saw the townâs biggest names - dancers from the prestigious Northern Ballet Academy as well as teachers from various local schools - doing incredible ballet and contemporary dance routines. Some truly impressive, dynamic stuff - especially the troupe that executed the full âDance of the Cygnetsâ scene, a ballet masterpiece and an unforgettable climax of graceful ballet finesse.
One of the most amazing things I saw was a little boy, maybe five or six, decked out in a black and silver tutu - his face lit up with joy as he learned a basic ballet sequence. The twinkle in his eye was truly magical, and I realised right there that Tutu Tuesday wasnât just about fashion - it was about bringing out the child-like joy of moving your body in a free, expressive way. The pure delight on the little one's face is an image that will stick with me for years to come.
And I have to confess, for all its fabulousness, the most touching moment came during the âAfternoon Tea and Tutu Talkâ. We sat with the mayor (and a truly delicious, dainty finger sandwich or two), and he was just so enthusiastic and appreciative of what Tutu Tuesday had brought to Burnley. This man, the symbol of local government, with his official chain and regalia, so totally embraced the silliness of it all. In that moment, I knew Burnley had embraced Tutu Tuesday, and this town's creative soul was truly coming alive.
As the sun started setting and casting long shadows on the Victorian façade of the Mechanics, I walked home, still feeling a warm glow of tutus. It had been a day for connecting with community and celebrating self-expression - and I believe it gave the town of Burnley the gift of magic, whimsy, and, above all, a whole lot of heart. It definitely showed that even in the most unexpected places, creativity can take flight. #tututuesday.
So here's to Burnley and the success of their inaugural "Tutu Tuesday". It proved that a bit of whimsy, even in the heart of industrial Yorkshire, can be a catalyst for something really special.
And I am not the only one who thought so - social media went bonkers with photos from the day - #TutuTuesday trended nationally! This celebration, this embrace of tutus, dance and self-expression, reminded everyone, including myself, that in a world filled with serious affairs and stressful deadlines, a bit of tulle can go a long way! The spirit of this day was contagious - people embraced the chance to be silly and bold in ways that were just delightful. Even those who haven't worn a tutu in decades felt inspired to take part. Itâs no wonder that Tutu Tuesday has become the hottest trend in Burnley.
But as a dancer, there was a personal connection too. From the intricate detail of each tutu to the sheer joy of a community moving in unison - it was a day of reflection, a way of honoring the beauty of a timeless art form. From professional ballet performances to the joy of seeing local schoolchildren twirling their heart out, Tutu Tuesday provided a window into a world of dance, art and shared passion.
Burnley's success story doesn't end there. Towns all over the UK are now jumping on the tutu train - with reports of Tutu Tuesday events planned from the Scottish Highlands to the rolling hills of the Cotswolds. From this little town in Yorkshire, a movement has sprung, demonstrating that embracing a bit of silly, a bit of grace, and a bit of sheer tutu-fabulousness can be infectious - bringing communities together in a beautiful and unexpected way.
I have no doubt that the story of Tutu Tuesday is just beginning - and who knows? Maybe itâll even catch on in a tutu-tastic way on an international stage, sparking similar events in towns across the globe! As for myself? Well, Iâve got my eye on a beautiful lavender tutu (thank you Lily!) and I'm definitely looking forward to a future filled with twirls, Tiaras and lots more Tutu Tuesday. Stay tuned - because as weâve seen in Burnley - tutus are much more than just fashion - theyâre a reminder of how joyful life can be!
Donât miss out! #TutuTuesday is just getting started.
Here are a few key points for planning a Tutu Tuesday:
- Partner with local dance studios or schools to ensure a well-rounded event
- Find a fun, community space â a town hall, a theatre, a park, a street even - the key is creating an atmosphere thatâs inclusive and exciting.
- Donât just focus on dancers! Get people of all ages and skill levels involved with crafts workshops or just general participation!
- Get creative with the âTutu Tuesdayâ theme - invite everyone to embrace the fun and embrace those whimsical sides.
- And donât forget the food â tea, scones and cakes with a touch of "tutu-magic"! (Just donât make the cakes pink!)
With these elements in place, I have no doubt that your #tututuesday event will be a smashing success, bursting with creativity and charm.