Rising Star Dance Studio is set to celebrate its 20th anniversary by presenting a full-length production of the ballet Coppelia. With performances on 28 and 29 May 2016, Coppelia is a romantic comedy, based on a story by E.T.A. Hoffman with music composed by Leo Delibes. The ballet has charmed audiences since it was first performed in 1870 at the Imperial Opera Theatre, Paris, and it will no doubt enthral audiences here in Bangkok.
Coppelia portrays the story of the mysterious inventor Dr. Coppelius and his life-size mechanical dancing doll, so life-like that all the villagers think it is a real person, including Swanhilda and her flirtatious boyfriend Franz. The latter forsakes his true love in favour of the robotic dancer until Swanhilda shows him the folly of his ways by dressing as the doll, pretending to make it come to life, and ultimately saving him from an untimely end at the hands of Dr. Coppelius, who eventually forgives the lovers and joins in their wedding celebration.
This two-act performance incorporates several sections based on the Royal Ballet (London) version by Enrico Cecchetti. It will be directed and choreographed by Fay Pansringarm, a Bangkok resident for 30 years who brings her many years of experience as a ballet dancer, director and choreographer in New York City to Thailand.
The cast numbers almost 100 amateurs and professionals, aged five to adult, from over 25 nationalities; all are currently studying or teaching at Rising Star Dance Studio. Returning from regular engagements with the San Diego Ballet and performances in Japan to dance the lead role of Swanhilda is Maho Mashimo, a former student of Rising Star who trained professionally at the prestigious Rock School in the US.
Partnering with her as Franz is Anurak Ngamta, Thailand’s foremost male ballet dancer. Narith “March” Niyomsuk, a Thai TV emcee, actor and drama coach, imparts his unique interpretation to the role of Dr Coppelius.
The performance venue is M Theater, New Phetchaburi Road, and shows start at 2.30pm. Tickets cost 900 baht and part of the proceeds will go to the Wild Animal Rescue Foundation of Thailand. For more information, please e-mail [email protected] or call 081-908-3931, 081-553-0656 or 084-456-4433.
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