West Briton 13/02/2008
Stunning Ballet

Rehearsals are now well under way for the Duchy Ballet's production of The Snow Queen and Stepping out to Gershwin.The Snow Queen is a spectacular and visually stunning ballet on a grand scale specially created for Duchy Ballet by choreographer Terence Etheridge.

With beautiful costumes designed by Ann Wallwork and a stunning lighting design by Richard G Jones, the ballet is danced to a glorious musical score by Glazunov, one of the Imperial Russian ballet's greatest late 19th century composers.

It will be played by the Cornish Sinfonia under the direction of David Frost. The Cornish Sinfonia will also provide the swing accompaniment to Stepping out to Gershwin.

The programme will feature well over 100 young dancers from all parts of Cornwall with a leavening of seasoned professionals.

Fifteen-year-old Cara Searle, who dances the role of the Snow Queen, has grown up with the company since she was a junior flower six years ago, and experienced dancer Robyn Green will take the major role of Gerda, whose perilous journey to rescue her friend Kay from the clutches of the sinister Snow Queen provides the theme of the story.

In a completely contrasting style Stepping out to Gershwin provides an exciting extra bonus. It is a wonderful nostalgic and evocative re-creation of the Broadway and Hollywood musical world of the 1920s and '30s. Non-stop music, singing and dancing to Gershwin's unforgettable melodies will guarantee enjoyment for young and old.

For those who have never been to a full-scale dance performance before this will be an enjoyable introduction and an evening of joyful entertainment.

Duchy Ballet is the South West's foremost youth ballet company now well recognised for its high standard of performance. Open auditions have brought in boys and girls from eight dance schools all over Cornwall who provide the cream of the county's young talent.

Another feature of the production will be a Gala Night on Thursday, March 13, in aid of the Cornwall Community Foundation.

Duchy Ballet's major is Coodes Solicitors and the company would love to hear from any other businesses or individuals who would like to help provide this wonderful performance opportunity for Cornwall's young dancers.

Who: Duchy Ballet's The Snow Queen and Stepping out to Gershwin
Where: Hall for Cornwall, Truro
When: March 11-15
Tickets: from £10.50 to £16.50 with family packs available
Box office: 01872 262466 or www.hallforcornwall.co.uk