Madison Little as the Lilac Fairy in "Sleeping Beauty ... The Spell."
BRISTOL, TN - "Sleeping Beauty ... The Spell" is an original Highlands Ballet production with a spin, or twist, on a familiar fairy tale. "Sleeping Beauty," popularized by the Brothers Grimm, was derived from the writings of Charles Perrault. Perrault, in turn, had based his story on folk tales that date from 1330 – 1344. The Highlands Ballet Company brings a beautiful princess, a handsome prince, a sleeping enchantment, intrigue and true love to life on the Paramount Stage.
The classical ballet version was first performed in 1890 with music written by Peter Ilyich Tchaikovsky. The score was completed in 1889, and is the second of his three ballets. The choreographer of the original production was Marius Petipa.
The popular Disney movie premiered in 1959. The new version, based on Disney's "Maleficent," added to the challenges as well as the inspiration of creating a new interpretation of this centuries old fairy tale for today's ballet audience.
Highlands' version includes all the fairy variations, Aurora's Variation and so much more. The audience experiences the joy of love, the disappointment of betrayal, drama, surprises, as well as moments of laughter.
The ballet is on stage March 18 at The Paramount Center for the Arts at 7:30 p.m. The performance moves to Southwest Virginia Community College March 20 at 3 p.m.
Call 423-274-8920 for tickets to the Friday performance. Call 276-963-3385 for tickets to the Sunday matinee. www.highlandsballet.org.
