Submitted by Ballet Northwest
Nearly one thousand students from surrounding school districts will soon be treated to an exciting performance of the celebrated Tchaikovsky ballet, Swan Lake, when Olympia-based Ballet Northwest performs the timeless classic May 9 through May 11 at the Washington Center for the Performing Arts. A special performance has scheduled just for students.
Seventy-five local dancers will perform the visual masterpiece, which is being sponsored by the Nisqually Indian Tribe, Olympia Federal Savings, Andrew Kapust DDS, KRXY 94.5 FM, and The Olympian.
Swan Lake is being staged and choreographed by Ballet Northwest’s Artistic Directors Ken and Josie Johnson, who since 2008 have added special daytime performances of their seasonal productions and filled their venues with elementary school students from the Olympia, North Thurston, Tumwater, and Rainier school districts. These performances have been provided at no charge to either the school district or students.
The Johnsons also have donated thousands of free tickets to local youth organizations such as Big Brothers Big Sisters and Community Youth Services, providing exceptional opportunities for disadvantaged and at-risk youth to witness world-class dance performances right here in their own community.
The ballet, which was first performed in 1877 by the Bolshoi Ballet in Moscow, tells the story of Odette, the young princess who refuses the advances of the evil sorcerer von Rothbart. In revenge, he delivers a curse that transforms her into a swan whenever the sun rises. When the handsome young Prince Siegfried is out hunting, he sees Odette, first as a lovely swan and later as a beautiful woman. He discovers her secret and they fall in love. But von Rothbart has other plans! Will love conquer all?
Dancing the role of the handsome prince is Bremerton, Washington native Andrew Pontius, who has danced with some of the most highly esteemed ballet companies in the world. The production is highlighted by striking costumes, splendid staging, and exquisite sets designed by Jill Carter, who has designed sets in the past for Olympia Family Theater and Harlequin Productions.
Founded in 1970, Ballet Northwest is a community-based dance company dedicated to promoting, teaching, and preserving the art of dance in Southwestern Washington. The company offers educational opportunities for local dancers as well as outreach throughout the community.
