FOUR young dancers are set to perform in a major ballet production.
Tilly Baker, 14, from Kingsmead; Betsy-Rose Hayes, 10, from Rudheath; Philippa Aspinall, nine, from Over Peover; and Savanna Lo, 10, from Kelsall, have secured places in the English Youth Ballet’s (EYB) upcoming production of Swan Lake.
The show will take place at the Palace Theatre in Manchester in June.
The aspiring dancers earned their roles following competitive auditions held in March and will perform alongside professional dancers in a cast of 97.
Tilly trains at KS Dance, while Betsy-Rose attends classes at Dancing4Fun.
Philippa and Savanna both train at the Fuchsia School of Dance.
All are currently taking part in intensive daily rehearsals, gaining a first-hand experience of life as a professional dancer.
Savanna said: "I started dancing back in 2023.
"I have always loved the rhythm of music and wanted a creative way to express those beats through dynamic body movement.
"The best feeling is the incredible rush of freedom when you connect completely with the rhythm of the music under the lights.
"I absolutely enjoy the stage and the thrill of performing.
"As this is my second time with EYB and having been incredibly honoured to be offered a scholarship at both auditions, I want to build on my previous experience.
"I am so excited to work with professional coaches and dancers to sharpen my stagecraft and technique.
"This entire experience really builds my confidence, allowing me to grow as a performer and enjoy the stage even more."
Philippa traced her love of dance back to early childhood.
She said: "My love of dance started at three years old after watching the ballet Cinderella on T.V.
"I joined Fuchsia School of Dance at age four and have loved it ever since.
"My teachers are kind and fun.
"The best thing about being a dancer is feeling like I am a free bird flying through the sky. It makes me feel at home and happy.
"I am hoping to learn all about being a ballet dancer in an English Youth Ballet production, learning new ballet skills and enjoying the excitement of experiencing performing at a grand theatre like The Palace in Manchester."
Ann Wall, EYB principal, who will play the role of Odette – The White Swan, praised the dedication and promise shown by young performers.
Ms Wall said: "Being part of EYB is an amazing experience for any young dancer.
"I feel privileged to be a principal dancer with the company.
"I enjoy teaching and coaching all the young dancers and I see some of the most talented young dancers in the country.
"I feel honoured to be a role model to the dancers and help give them an insight into the world of professional ballet.
"Dancing with EYB is an experience that will stay with the young dancers forever."
Swan Lake will be performed at the Palace Theatre in Manchester on June 5 and 6.
Tickets are available from the theatre box office or via the ATG website at atgtickets.com.
Share