For the Third show in our 2012/2013 Dance Series, the Vernon and District Performing Arts Centre Society is proud to present Ballet Jörgen’s Swan Lake, on Saturday February 2nd starting at 8:00 pm.

In celebration of Ballet Jörgen 25th anniversary season, Artistic Director and CEO Bengt Jörgen has re-envisioned the classical and dramatic SWAN LAKE, adding a hint of Canadian heritage, as is often a signature of his work. While this major new production showcases the extraordinary beauty of traditional ballet in its purest form, Jörgen re-imagines it in the picturesque Fortress of Louisbourg, Nova Scotia.

The elaborate sets are designed by Camellia Koo, reflecting the beauty of Canada’s national heritage parks providing a dramatic backdrop to Robert Doyle’s 17th century costume designs. Jörgen states that Doyle is thrilled to be involved in this unique rendition of Swan Lake, having worked on the original restoration project of the Fortress of Louisburg. “There is no reason why Swan Lake has to be staged in some imaginary medieval European place. This version of Swan Lake is set in and around the fortress of Louisburg, Nova Scotia, and so our audiences will see Canadian heritage intrinsically reflected in the piece”, says Jorgen.

With a cast of 24 dancers, this addition to the company repertoire is one of the largest ballet productions to grace Canadian stages from coast to coast.

View this classic production through the eyes of a true visionary of history and dance, and re-live this magical, beloved ballet – the story of true love, the union of two souls, and ultimate sacrifice – as it unfolds in this unique and magical presentation by Ballet Jörgen Canada.

“I am so excited to do this work and be able to do it with the kind of incredible dancers that we have. Swan Lake has an evocative and inspiring quality that makes it a pleasure and beauty to work on, and I’m excited about transferring that feeling to the people watching it.” – adds Bengt Jörgen

Ballet Jörgen Canada is the recipient of the 2011 National Arts Centre Award for Distinguished Contribution to Touring, recognizing Ballet Jörgen Canada for its leadership role in the development of touring by professional dancers and companies in Canada. The Company is known for its commitment to the recreation of classical ballets, in a way that is respectful of tradition, yet engaging to modern audiences and with a repertoire consisting exclusively of original works.

The love affair with this company does not only apply to the performance. Additional activities being planned for interested participants:

For all of the up and coming Dancers in our community, the company will be hosting an exclusive 30-60 minute Dance as a Professional Discussion. Participants will have the opportunity to discuss the ins and outs of working as a professional dancer. Topics will have a special focus on the ballet world including: life within a company, touring, finding a company and auditioning. Peek behind the veil of the professional dance world, and make some new exciting connections.

Dance students and teachers also have the opportunity to participate in the Ballet Jörgen Master Class. Dancers can take their dance to another level by working intimately with company members. Class sizes will be limited to allow for one-on-one instruction.

The Vernon and District Performing Arts Centre would like to thank the following sponsors for their generous support: Kal Tire, Valley Medical Labs, Allan Francis Pringle, Best Western Vernon Lodge, the Vernon Morning Star, North of 50 Magazine, the Okanagan Advertiser, the Department of Canadian Heritage, the Regional District of the North Okanagan, the British Columbia Arts Council, and the Vernon Jazz Society.

To register for the master class, professional discussion, or to purchase tickets for SWAN LAKE, call the the Ticket Seller Box Office at 549-SHOW (7469) or online at www.ticketseller.ca/609

Swan Lake – Trailer

Swan Lake – Studio Dress Rehearsal