Latest news with #EnglishYouthBallet
Yahoo
22-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Five young dancers land spots in fully professional ballet company
Five talented young dancers have successfully earned spots in the English Youth Ballet. Chepstow, Pontypool, and Caldicot residents Freya Downie, 10, Cara Morris, 11, Elizabeth Jepson, 15, Gracie Bates, 10, and Kara Lewis, 9, were selected in May to join the elite cast of 75 for the production of Coppélia after highly competitive auditions. The young dancers are currently immersed in rehearsals, experiencing the life of a professional dancer as they refine their skills for the forthcoming performance. The event is set to take place at The Playhouse Theatre in Weston from August 15-16, where they will share the stage with internationally acclaimed professional dancers. Read more CBeebies' Balamory to return with new and old characters in 2026 - see the cast Monmouth tenor named world's best young singer at Llangollen Eisteddfod Country fans watch out - a day of foot-stomping fun is coming to city Elizabeth Jepson from Pontypool, who trains at Appleby Dance, said: "My mum took me to my first ballet class when I was 4 years old because she thought I would enjoy it, and I did! "I have danced ever since. "I love performing on stage, I even represented Wales at the Dance World Cup in Prague last year which was an amazing experience. "Having the opportunity to train under EYB's teachers is so valuable because I learn something new every time. "I am really excited to perform in my first full production as a ballerina in Coppélia." EYB's principal, Ann Wall, who will be playing Swanhilda in the production, said: "Teaching the young dancers is incredibly rewarding as I get to see them learn new steps and grow in confidence. "It is magical to see how they progress and blossom on stage and it brings me great joy to dance alongside them."
Yahoo
03-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Local aspiring ballerina lands role in prestigious production
A LOCAL young ballerina is set to take centre stage after being selected to perform in a prestigious national ballet company's upcoming production. Amelie Short successfully auditioned for a role in English Youth Ballet (EYB)'s upcoming production of Coppélia. After competing in highly selective auditions last November, the dedicated young performer earned her place in the elite 82-strong cast, sharing the stage with internationally acclaimed professional dancers. The 13-year-old from Stourbridge is currently experiencing firsthand what it means to be a professional dancer, taking part in rigorous daily rehearsals that include intensive ballet training and coaching from industry professionals. Amelie, who trains at the Rachel Dixon School of Dance in Kingswinford, said: 'I started dancing when I was 2 years old. Amelie Short trains at Rachel Dixon School of Dance (Image: Ben Garner) 'My mom took me as I loved to dance to music. I just love to dance. It keeps me fit, has given me the confidence to perform, and I've got a great dance family at Rachel Dixon School of Dance. 'This is my second time dancing with EYB, and I'm hoping that I'm able to improve my pointe work alongside learning a new ballet and making new friends.' Coppélia follows the story of Franz, who becomes smitten with a mysterious, life-like doll created by Dr. Coppelius, but when Franz's sweetheart, Swanhilda, uncovers the truth, chaos and comedy ensue. EYB Principal Ann Wall, who will play the role of Swanhilda, said: "Teaching these young dancers is incredibly rewarding. Watching them develop new skills, gain confidence, and bring their artistry to life on stage is magical. "They remind me why I dance – to bring joy, to feel joy, and to connect through dance." Amelie will take to the stage alongside some of the best ballerinas in the industry at the Shrewsbury Theatre Severn on April 25 and 26.
