Ballet magic brings lump to throat (From Halesowen News)

Ballet magic brings lump to throat

10:24am Tuesday 25th September 2012 in Local

MY judgement of how much I have enjoyed a theatrical performance is either the tears of laughter or the emotional lump in the throat - so on that basis the English Youth Ballet’s rendition of Swan Lake was an absolute winner – the lump was huge.

With a cast of more than 100 local children aged eight to 18, performing alongside professionals at Wolverhampton’s Grand Theatre, it was difficult to believe this touring company had put these youngsters through their paces to performance level in just a few weeks.

But they had, and director Janet Lewis MBE confided that the region was producing the highest standard of young dancers across the land, demonstrating flair and true grit.

The audience, of mainly parents, grandparents and other relatives plus dance schoolmates, was filled with understandable nerves and pride as the curtain rose.

Their offspring, colleagues and mates did not let them down. It was a magical performance of this most famous of all ballets.

Led by superb principals, the production was totally engaging from start to finish – even for my 12-year-old son.

The lump in my throat was difficult to swallow as we joined in with the several encores and standing ovation this deserved show-stopper attracted.

The English Youth Ballet tours the nation, giving young dancers the experience of their youth, for some of their lifetime, and providing audiences with a truly memorable occasion. Worth a ticket, next time in town.

Sarah Cousin