Ballet Theatre of Toledo’s artistic director and choreographer Nigel Burgoine brings author, Gabrielle-Suzanne de Villeneuve’s timeless classic story of “Beauty and the Beast” to life. This one act ballet is set to an original score by Professor David Jex and accompanied by six musicians. Belle, the heroine of the story, displays her love and dedication to her father by fulfilling his request for her to work for an aristocratic beast. As the ballet evolves, Belle realizes that despite the Beast’s appearance, he is a kind, loving individual. When Belle declares her love for him, the evil spell is broken, the Beast is transformed back to Prince Adam, and they marry and live happily ever after.
The lesson: Do not judge a book by its cover.
The pair also collaborated on five other story ballet productions including “The Great Pancake Escape,” “Ugly Duckling,” “Meema the Lemur Becomes a Ballerina,” “Pinocchio” and “Little Mermaid.”
Performances are set for Saturday, March 11, at 7 p.m., and Sunday, March 12, at 2 p.m., at the Franciscan Center, Lourdes University.
Tickets are $25 and can be purchased through Ballet Theatre of Toledo, 419-8610895. Regular box office hours are Monday through Thursday, 2 to 7 p.m., or email to info@ballettheatre oftoledo.org Any patrons needing assistive services should notify the box office while placing a ticket order.
