Four young Illawarra ballerinas from different dance schools are defying stereotypes of rivalry in the dance world and instead are excited to share an important milestone with each other as friends.
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The tween foursome have been chosen to perform with the Australian Ballet for a season of a contemporary version of the Nutcracker – The Story of Clara at the Sydney Opera House this May.
“Everyone just connects because we have something in common that we love – dance,” 12-year-old Faith Maggs said.
Faith, along with Emma Gavin, 11, Amber Alston, 13, and Mia Atikinson 11, were given the chance to audition through their involvement with the Australian Ballet Interstate Program.
“I think it’s lovely they’ve got these nice friendships with girls from other studios. I think sometimes ballet gets a different image,” said Amber’s mum Richelle, who admitted to video calling her daughter in the school bus line when she got the news.
“I was at home and I got the email that said she got in … I was tearing up, I was excited and happy,” Mia’s dad Dave added.
“To dance at the Opera House, that’s the ultimate isn’t it.”
The four girls will begin rehearsals and allocated various roles for the production during April.
It’s believed 200 other aspiring superstars from across the state auditioned for roles though only 20 young dancers were selected.
Graeme Murphy's production of Nutcracker – The Story of Clara with The Australian Ballet, May 2 to 20 at Sydney Opera House. www.australianballet.com.au