A group of Stockbrook children is looking forward to joining the cast of Rapunzel on stage in Derby.
The Becket Primary School children, all aged between seven and nine, will be taking part in a professional production of the well-loved fairy tale at Derby Theatre.
They were selected after dance theatre company balletLORENT ran a workshop at the school.
Thirteen children will take part in two performances on Friday 9 and Saturday 10 February 2024. They are Cielo Newman-Lothian, Maddison Simpson, Tia-Rose Smedley, Mattia Loan Lupu, Xavian Noakes, Venkata Saisri Vedaansh-Batchu, Zion Tayoolowo, Barana Jamalinejad, Emi-Rae Horne, Drestas Makauskas, Samuel Bether-Taylor, Dhannvin Kummaresh and Rong Mahdi Osman.
The pupils will join an impressive line-up of talent in balletLORENT's Rapunzel, which includes costumes by award-winning Game of Thrones and Mamma Mia! designer Michele Clapton, a soundtrack by Dr Who composer Murray Gold and narration by leading British actor Lesley Sharp, known for roles in The Full Monty and Clocking Off amongst others. The production is suitable for ages 5+.
James MacGillivray, education and projects manager, balletLORENT, said: "When looking for young people to join us on stage, they don't have to have loads of dance experience.
"We are always excited to find children who come alive when they move and who would bring joy and wonder to our productions.
"We met some amazing children during our visit to Becket Primary school. It's their enthusiasm and lust for life that makes them shine."
Liz Stewart, Key Stage 2 lead, Becket Primary school, said: "The project is a great opportunity for our pupils as it will boost their confidence and creative abilities.
"They are very excited at the prospect of performing at Derby Theatre as previously they have only been audience members."
Samuel Bathe-Taylor, eight, said: "I am looking forward to meeting all of the characters in Rapunzel, especially the witch. This is a great opportunity to improve my acting skills."
Cielo Newman-Lothian, eight, said: "I can't wait to perform on stage at Derby Theatre. I love dance and movement and was really excited to be chosen to take part."
Zion Tayoolowa, eight, said: "I love to dance and can't wait to improve my skills. I'm really excited that we get the chance to perform with ribbons."
balletLORENT's Rapunzel is at Derby Theatre on Friday 9 February 2024 at 6.30pm and on Saturday 10 February 2024 at 2pm.
