ASHTABULA — Ballet Theatre Ashtabula presents its final performances of its annual spring ballet at the Ashtabula Arts Center today through Sunday.
Friday and Saturday performances will begin at 7:30 p.m. A Sunday matinee will begin at 2 p.m.
Directed by Shelagh Dubsky and Clover Robinson, the annual spring production will include many of our areas most talented dancers.
Premieres this spring include the haunting music of Vitamin String Quartet performing U2's “Running to Stand Still” as a backdrop for an emotional journey of six dancers separating and coming together again. Another new work is set to the music of Philip Glass.
For sheer fun, “Mango Tango” showcases the company with a cool Latin groove. Inspired by the passion of Tango and the flirtatious sound of the mandolin, a full cast brings you a taste of exotic fun.
Other works on the program range from classical ballet as in the popular “Diamonds,” a ballet choreographed to Karl Jenkin's popular diamonds commercial to “Hey Mama,” a full company piece derived from African Rhythms and movement with music by the Black Eyed Peas. Also premiering is a work titled “Stage Six.”
Reservations for the show are recommended and tickets can be purchased by calling the center at (440) 964-3396. Patron tickets are $12, adults $9, seniors $8 and students and children $7.
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The Ashtabula Arts Center has begun to take sign-ups for multi-arts camp for kids. The day camp, for kids in grades 1 through 6, will offer a chance for kids to explore all aspects of the arts.
Each day campers will receive instruction in visual arts, dance, music and theater as part of a rehearsal for the musical theater production “Star Search!” All campers will have a part in the play. In addition to their stage roles, kids will build sets and make costumes in the visual arts portion of the program. Songs and lines will be rehearsed in music and acting classes, while dances will be choreographed in the dance session. All of their work will come together in a free performance on the Straw Hat Theatre stage on the final day of the camp. Family members and friends are invited to watch the children perform.
The camp is offered in two sessions. The first camp session will run June 15 through July 3. A second session will run July 6 through July 24. Camp is held Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Cost of the camp is $175. A nonrefundable $50 deposit is due two weeks prior to the start of camp. All materials are included in the cost; however, campers should bring one white t-shirt for decorating on the first day of camp. A packed lunch must also be brought each day. Registration is required.
In addition, a program for preschoolers, preschool art experience, will be offered on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10 a.m. to noon for three weeks beginning June 16. Cost is $40 per child. A $20 deposit is due at registration.
An art, music and dance component plus a short snack break will be included in the preschool program. Teachers will work on group skills such as socialization, following instructions, taking turns, playing fair and respecting others. These skills will be encouraged in a creative atmosphere that encourages success and self-confidence.
