M’CHIGEENG—This year’s Classic School of Dance ballet production of Pinocchio brought the classic story to life with dance and humour.
The performance entertained an audience of over 400 on Sunday, May 4 at Manitoulin Secondary School with a mixture of classical and modern music. Choreographed and directed by ballet teacher Maja Mielonen, the production included over 50 dancers from across Manitoulin, ranging from 3 to 16 years of age. The success of the show represents months of training, planning and preparation by dancers, parents and volunteers.
The classical story about temptation, conscience and dreams coming true was expressed with grace and vitality. Clock figurines come to life, puppets are animated, and children are turned into donkeys. Ultimately, Geppeto and Pinocchio find their happy ending and goodness triumphs.
The costumes, prepared by parents and grandparents, added colour and flare to the familiar plot, unique music, and skilled dancing. Lighting, artwork, set design and musical selections amplified the overall experience of the show thanks to the behind the scenes expertise of Guy Nielen, Blanche Campbell, Dawn Wall, Kyla Young, Bettina Turner, Rachel Hoffman, Brynn Kylie, Daniel Chapman and Laury Cranston.
The full-house audience was impressed by the technical skill and expressiveness of the performers. The company also performed the show for Lakeview Public School, Central Manitoulin Public School, Assiginack Public School, C.C. MacLean Public School, and the Mnidoo Mnising Anishinabek Kinoomaage-gamig Program on Tuesday to bring ballet to younger audiences.
The energy and commitment of everyone involved made the 19th production by the Classic School of Dance a resounding artistic success for Manitoulin Island.
