Lily and Ava to shine in prestigious ballet production
The talents of Lily Edwards (10) from Willenhall and Ava Platt (11) from Wolverhampton are set to take centre stage as they join the prestigious English Youth Ballet (EYB) in its upcoming production of Coppélia.
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After competing in highly selective auditions last November, these dedicated young performers earned their place in the elite 82-strong cast, sharing the stage with internationally acclaimed professional dancers at the Shrewsbury Theatre Severn from 25 – 26 April.
This is an extraordinary opportunity for both Ava and Lily, who both train at Classic Academy of Dance. They are currently experiencing firsthand what it means to be a professional dancer, taking part in rigorous daily rehearsals that include intensive ballet training and coaching from industry professionals. Their journey is a testament to their dedication, discipline, and passion for dance, and they are making the entire community proud.
Lily said: “I started dancing when I was 18 months old in a baby ballet class.
"I love being able to express myself and the opportunities being a dancer provides me with.
"This will be my second performance with EYB, after performing in Giselle last year. I hope to learn more skills and gain more performance experience with a professional ballet company.”
Ava said “I first started dancing at my local baby ballet classes, mainly because I loved the pink tutus! I’ve been dancing ever since!
"I’m looking forward to having this opportunity to rehearse and perform with EYB. I am hoping to improve my ballet technique and learn as much as I can from the principal dancers and teachers.
"Dance isn’t just a lesson or a sport or hobby it’s a big part of my life, I love the confidence it gives me to express myself. I love the feeling of learning a dance and performing it for the first time or when I finally get a step or sequence right that I’ve been working towards!”
EYB Principal Ann Wall, who will play the role of Swanhilda, spoke about the joy of working with such talented young dancers. A former member of English National Ballet and Ballet Cymru, she shared: "Teaching these young dancers is incredibly rewarding. Watching them develop new skills, gain confidence, and bring their artistry to life on stage is magical. They remind me why I dance – to bring joy, to feel joy, and to connect through dance."
Coppélia is the perfect introduction to ballet for all the family. Full of humour, romance and adventure, the story follows the lovable Franz who becomes smitten with a mysterious, life-like doll created by the quirky Dr. Coppelius. But when Franz’s spirited sweetheart, Swanhilda, decides to uncover the truth, chaos and comedy ensue!
With dazzling costumes, delightful characters, and a jubilant wedding celebration to end – this timeless tale is sure to leave the whole family smiling.
The English Youth Ballet, established in 1998, is renowned for its commitment to nurturing the next generation of dancers. Many former EYB performers have gone on to join world-renowned companies such as The Royal Ballet, and our local dancers are now following in those same inspiring footsteps.
This is a moment of immense pride for our community—seeing our own young talents perform alongside some of the best in the industry.
Tickets for Coppélia at Theatre Severn Shrewsbury from 25 – 26 April can be purchased at theatresevern.co.uk.
