Oak Ridge Civic Ballet presents ‘Sleeping Beauty,’ ‘Swan Lake’

By Wendie Aurin

The Oak Ridge Civic Ballet Association is inviting the community to their fairy tale world with Tchaikovsky’s “Sleeping Beauty” and “Swan Lake” in April.

Professional guest artists Tory Morton and Erin-Elizabeth Morton will perform as Prince Seigfried and Odette in “Swan Lake.” Special guest Frank Murphy of Classic Hits 93.1 WNOX will portray the King in “Sleeping Beauty.”

Tickets are $20 for adults and $15 for seniors. Student tickets are $10, but ORCBA is proud to once again participate in the Penny 4 the Arts program, which allows up to three students to attend for a penny each with a paid adult or senior. Tickets may be purchased at the door, at www.orcba.org, or at Flutterfly’s Consignment in the Manhattan Place Shopping Center. All productions are open seating.

The East Tennessee community has been generous in its support of ORCBA during the past 50 years, and ORCBA would like to give back. Any civic employee—fire, police, EMT, teachers, etc, will be admitted free of charge with their immediate families. Patrons should present their badge or official identification at the ticket booth to take advantage of this opportunity.

Local pre-professional dancers Sarah Jett and Jenny Collins will alternate as Aurora in “Sleeping Beauty,” with Taylor Gober performing as her Prince. Carolyn Wheeler and Elizabeth Cousins will be featured as the Lilac Fairy. Allison Parton and Madeline Gavin will be performing the always-fun role of Malificent.

Artistic Director Molly Quist and Assistant Director Sharon Nicklow-Cousins are excited to present their own version of these two classic ballets. Composed in 1889, this is the 125th birthday of “Sleeping Beauty,” and “Swan Lake” is widely regarded as one of the greatest ballets of all time. ORCBA is proud to offer our community the opportunity to experience these classic pieces.

Performances are Saturday, April 5, at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. A school student performance of “Sleeping Beauty” will be Friday, April 4, at 10 a.m. Homeschoolers are always welcome at school performances. All shows are at the Oak Ridge Performing Arts Center, which is a fantastic venue and truly an asset to the community.

ORCBA’s goal is to provide a clean, safe, fun, professional environment for dancers of all abilities and ages to perform before a live audience. ORCBA is also a recognized IRS 501(c)(3) charitable organization, so donations are tax deductible. Please contact Wendie Aurin, ORCBA President, at [email protected] for more information on any of the activities listed above or sponsorship opportunities.