Sitting down in the theatre at Lift Ryde to their Dance Department’s production of Sleeping Beauty, the scene was set from the beginning by the music playing as the audience entered, recognisable to any fairytale fans…fairytale fans who were not disappointed when the curtain came up.

In the titular role was Olivia M as Princess Aurora, whose innocence and elegance and clear joy at being on stage were lovely to watch, and complementing her beautifully was Matthew M as the Prince. Matthew’s dance-inspired combat with wicked fairy Carabosse in ‘Kill The Crown’ was especially powerful.

Zoe W as Carabosse was exceptional: her face never cracked, her movements were finessed and punctuated with villainous attitude, and backed by her own personal ensemble she commanded the stage beautifully. Her entrance to ‘Dance of the Knights’ and the routine to a cover of Britney Spears’ ‘Toxic’ were particularly memorable.

Strong supporting performances came from Amelia K as King Stefan and Isla D as Queen Leah, and from Lily W, Katy T and Daisy P as Flora, Fauna and Merryweather, the three good fairies who bless Aurora at her christening. Their pointe trio around Aurora’s dress – with a delightful nod to the Disney film’s ‘pink or blue’ debate – was a real highlight, and a great example of character work through dance.

The three separate ensembles all brought something different to the production: the Court Ensemble’s balletic poise, the Carabosse Ensemble’s contemporary attitude, and the Vine Ensemble’s creeping charisma all combined to make the whole show a lovely, and fluid, piece of teamwork.

It is so very unusual to see a school’s dance show dedicated entirely to ballet, and what a joy to see so many students engaging with this timeless genre of dance, cementing another generation’s love of this classic art form. And how lucky these young dancers are to have teachers such as Mr. Davies and his team in their corner, providing them with such wonderful opportunities not only to explore and enjoy ballet but also to showcase their hard work to audiences.

The whole cast at Lift Ryde should be extremely proud of a show well done, with plenty of character and heart and talent packed into just one hour. A thoroughly enjoyable evening, and I look forward to seeing these young people continue to develop their talents: whatever they may go on to do in the future, memories of shows like this will stay with them for life.