Hampton Ballet Theatre School Presents Its Annual Spring Show

If it’s April, it must be time for the young dancers of Hampton Ballet Theatre School (HBTS) to present their annual spring performance. This year’s show is an eclectic mix featuring “Les Sylphides,” “Mendelara” and the “Littlest Mermaid.” Performances are at Guild Hall’s John Drew Theater in East Hampton on Friday, April 12, at 7 p.m., Saturday, April 13, at 1 p.m. and 7 p.m., and Sunday, April 14, at 2 p.m.

“Les Sylphides” is a short non-narrative romantic ballet, a “ballet blanc” originally choreographed by Michael Fokine with music by Frederic Chopin. The ballet premiered in 1907 at St. Petersburg’s Mariinsky Theatre by the Ballets Russes. HBTS director Sara Jo Strickland has staged this ballet with guest artist Nick Peregrino. “Mendelara” is a modern ballet en pointe choreographed by Strickland’s mentor and teacher, Aras Ames. Both ballets will be danced by the upper level students of HBTS.

The “Littlest Mermaid” is a ballet originally conceived and choreographed by Ms. Strickland and it will feature all the students of HBTS as well as guest artist Nick Peregrino. Located in a kingdom under the sea, all types of wondrous creatures will bring Hans Christian Andersen’s fairy tale to life. The costumes for the ballet are designed by Yuka Silvera with lighting designed by Sebastian Paczynski and a seaworthy set design is by Ms. Strickland.

Advance tickets are $15 to $45 ($20 to $50 on performance day) at hamptonballettheatreschool.com or 1-888-933-4287. Guild Hall is at 158 Main Street, East Hampton.