Dancers with the Columbia County Ballet will bring the magic of a classic fairy tale and popular children's book to the stage next weekend.
The Martinez studio's performing company will put on Dr. Seuss' Green Eggs and Ham followed by Cinderella at the Jabez Sanford Hardin Performing Arts Center, located inside the Evans library, on Friday at 7 p.m., and Saturday at 3 p.m. A special performance, which is free for toddlers, will be held Friday at 11:30 a.m.
"We call it a mini classic, and we always bring something that is a classic story," said Ron Jones, the ballet's artistic director.
About 26 of the company's younger dancers will perform in Green Eggs and Ham , which will last about seven minutes. The role of Sam will be played by Aiden Millar.
Jones said a hip-hop artist from Atlanta worked with the performers to add an extra element to the production.
Cinderella , a full-length ballet, will be performed by many of the older dancers, with Elizabeth Kenyon portraying Cinderella and Matthew Conway playing the part of the prince. Other roles in the ballet include the Fairy Godmother, the Dragonfly Queen, four gift-giving fairies and the stepmother, along with two stepsisters played by male dancers.
"Every little girl imagines herself to be Cinderella coming to the ball, and that's got to be the most magical part of the ballet," he said.
Jones said there will be about 55 dancers performing in both productions. He described the costumes as "stunning."
"It's all magic," Jones said of the productions. "It's what we all want."
Jones said that the ballets will be both entertaining and suited for children.
"We always address our performances for children," he said. "We want to keep their attention, and we want to keep it rolling and keep it exciting."
Tickets cost $20 for adults and $15 for students, senior citizens and active military personnel. They can be purchased by calling the ballet studio at (706) 860-1852 or going to columbiacountyballet.com. If available, tickets can be purchased at the door.
icon.