Two young Wyndham dancers are taking a star turn with the Western Ballet Project (WBP).
The program, run by artistic director Sophie O’Donnell, holds regular classical workshops and two productions a year.
The WBP hosts auditions for each production, with a maximum of 35 ballet students selected to participate in each show.
The WBP’s latest show, Mary Stuart. The Escape from Loch Leven, premiered at the Altona Theatre on the weekend (January 15 and 16).
In the lead-up to the concerts, cast members – including Point Cook’s Jemma Thompson and Werribee’s Alina Nadelyayeva, both 15 – were busy rehearsing in a Melton studio.
Jemma said she has studied with Dancemax Studios for 12 years and the WBP for three years.
“I love multiple things about performing and rehearsing with the Western Ballet project,” she said.
“Overall I think it is such a wonderful opportunity to be able to train and perform with the Western Ballet Project, and I love being a part of the company.”
Alina, who has also been studying dance for 12 years, said she has appeared in three productions with the WBP.
“Something I most enjoy about dancing is being able to tell a story through movement to an audience,” she said.
“Being part of the Western Ballet Project I have been able to perform on stage in different productions, telling different stories to an audience.
“I encourage other young dancers to come and participate in the Western Ballet Project in future workshops, classes and auditions, as it is a wonderful opportunity for all.”
Details: thewesternballetproject.com.au
By Alesha Capone
