Young ballerina Abigail Moore destined for ‘Hollywood’ in English Youth Ballet production of Cinderella set in the golden age of film
An 11-year-old pupil at Elsenham C of E Primary School has danced her way into the English Youth Ballet’s (EYB) production of Cinderella in Hollywood.
Abigail Moore, who lives with her family in Ugley Green, won her place after auditioning against 1,500 young hopefuls and is currently in the midst of rigorous rehearsals ahead of the opening performance at the Aylesbury Waterside Theatre in Buckinghamshire in mid-March.
She will be taking centre stage alongside a cast of world-class talent and 87 other young dancers who also made it through the auditions.
EYB’s principal dancers hail from some of the most prestigious ballet companies worldwide, including The Royal Ballet, English National Ballet, National Ballet of Portugal, Ballet de Toulouse and Vienna Festival Ballet.
In what is described as a “breathtaking reimagining of the classic fairytale… with stunning scenery, breathtaking choreography and spellbinding performances”, Cinderella in Hollywood is set in the golden age of 1950s Hollywood glamour, drawing inspiration from the real-life romance of film star Grace Kelly and Prince Rainier of Monaco.
Cinderella works behind the scenes of a Hollywood film set as a seamstress. Her Fairy Godmother is the spirit of her late mother, a movie star from the 1930s, guiding her toward her dreams.
The Wicked Stepsisters are rival starlets, fiercely competing for the industry’s most coveted roles, while the Prince is a dashing Hollywood heartthrob. Their love story unfolds at a glamorous press party – until Cinderella vanishes at midnight, leaving behind a sparkling silver pointe shoe.
EYB spokesman Ben Garner said: “For Abigail, this opportunity is nothing short of extraordinary. She currently trains at Forte Dance and Performing Arts. She is experiencing first hand what it means to be a professional dancer, taking part in rigorous rehearsals that include intensive ballet training and coaching from industry professionals.
“Her journey is a testament to her dedication, discipline and passion for dance, and she is making the entire community proud.”
EYB principal Ann Wall, who plays Cinderella, spoke about the joy of working with such talented young dancers.
The former English National Ballet and Ballet Cymru member 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."
EYB, established in 1998, is renowned for its commitment to nurturing the next generation of dancers. Many former performers have gone on to join world-renowned companies such as The Royal Ballet, and young dancers are now following in their footsteps.
Performance dates for Cinderella in Hollywood are Friday March 14 at 7.30pm and Saturday March 15 at 2.30pm and 7.30pm. Tickets are available from www.atgtickets.com/aylesbury.
