Using powerful and timeless stories the company challenges its dancers to interpret some of the finest characters in literature and continues to develop its relationship with audiences through accessible outreach work and exceptional, stylish performances.
Ballet Cymru is committed to innovation in dance and classical ballet, and to the highest standard of collaboration with choreographers, designers, composers and musicians. It was established in 1986 by Artistic Director, Darius James and Administrative Director, Yvonne Williams, to be a beacon for quality classical ballet in Wales.
Ballet Cymru will present two performances at Salisbury Arts Centre: The Light Princess on Thursday 7 December and Midsummer Night’s Dream on Friday 8 December. The company will also offer two workshops: Introduction to Ballet for ages 8+ years to adults (no previous dance experience required), and Ballet Student Workshop for dance students 14+ years and adults with at least one year’s ballet tuition.
Led by the professional dancers of Ballet Cymru, through creative ballet exercises, tasters of show material and creative tasks, the participants of both workshops will explore the techniques Ballet Cymru uses to create their productions in a fun and interactive environment.
The Light Princess is a new full length ballet for 2017 with a new score by brilliant Welsh harpist, composer and recording artist Catrin Finch, produced in collaboration with The Riverfront Theatre.
Using elements of circus and outstanding classical choreography the story draws inspiration from Sleeping Beauty, telling the story of a princess afflicted by a constant weightlessness, unable to get her feet on the ground, until she finds a love that brings her down to earth. Featuring ground breaking video projections and stunningly vibrant costumes The Light Princess will transport you to a world of laughter, beauty and wonder.
Midsummer Night’s Dream is a funny and heart-warming adaptation featuring vibrant classical choreography danced by some of the finest dancers around. Mendelssohn’s joyous music is interpreted by Artistic Director Darius James and highlights radiant costumes, sets and video projection. It creates a world of magic and mayhem.
The Queen of the Fairies Titania, and Puck the mischievous messenger, inhabit the supernatural fairy kingdom. Bottom and his boot-wearing “Rude Mechanicals” present their famous play Pyramus and Thisbe. And the lovers, caught in a thrilling web of mistaken identity and confusion, finally find their way through the Athenian forest to an unforgettable and joyous reconciliation.
Ballet Cymru perform and run their workshops at Salisbury Arts Centre on 7 and 8 December.
The Light Princess performance will take place on Thursday December 7 at 7.30pm (doors open 6.45pm). Tickets are £16 and £15 for concessions.
Midsummer Night’s Dream performance will take place on Friday December 8 at 7.30pm (doors open 6.45pm). Tickets are £18 and £17 for concessions.
Introduction to Ballet workshop will take place Thursday December 7 from 5pm to 6pm and Ballet Student Workshop on Friday December 8 from 5pm to 6pm. Tickets to both workshops are £10 or free with performance ticket (pre-booking essential). Bring ballet shoes!
All tickets available online at www.salisburyartscentre.co.uk or from Salisbury Arts Centre box office on 01722 321744.