Launch of Ballet Among the Books The Sleeping Beauty

Balletomane is happy to announce the successful unveiling of its new Ballet Among the Books programme for public libraries, The Sleeping Beauty. After presenting The Nutcracker in London libraries for the past four years, Balletomane's Director Natalie Krapf was looking to develop a fresh new programme. 'We had so much success with our Nutcracker programme that we needed something new to deliver to our regular communities. The Sleeping Beauty is a well known story and we have tried to present it in a way that appeals to both boys and girls. There is an evil witch and her rat minions, pirouetting fairies, and a story of magic spells and true love'.

Each half hour narrated performance of The Sleeping Beauty is followed by a family workshop where kids and parents take to the stage and learn steps and mime from the ballet. As a new programme, it is currently being presented as a pilot season where audience members are encouraged to leave their feedback and suggestions. It is hoped that through this feedback, Balletomane can create a programme that is accessible and enjoyable to everyone.

Some recent feedback on Balletomane's Ballet Among the Books: The Sleeping Beauty

'I thought it was amazing' - audience member Aged 8, Downham Library

'Fantastic. Thank you! What a great gift for those kids from a disadvantaged background (and free!). You are inspiring to them! - audience member, Downham Library

New Apprentices

Following our September workshop, Balletomane accepted seven new apprentices into the company. The new apprentices, all females, are understudying roles in our new Ballet Among the Books programme, The Sleeping Beauty. The apprentices are also helping backstage with costumes, set-up and sound. Two of the apprentices, Laura Dodge and Jayne Dennis are sharing the on-stage role of Narrator. 

Those apprentices who successfully complete this season, will graduate to company dancers after our performance on February 13th. We wish them all the best during their apprenticeship!

Step By Step Arts Collaboration with DRUM

DRUM, Disability Recreation Unity Movement, invited Balletomane dancers to act as models for their Step By Step arts project in 2007. Following a live performance and still model session, DRUM artists created drawings, paintings and sculptures of the Balletomane dancers. Many of the pieces were auctioned in aid of DRUM, while others will be exhibited on April 19th at the Watford Coliseum. DRUM provides day services & support for adults with physical &/or sensory disabilities & their carers. They offer innovative activities such as sessions in art, creative crafts, textiles, ceramics and sculpture along with group fitness and outdoor activities. Please see the DRUM Website for more infomation.

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