More than 100 young dancers, 200 sumptuous costumes, months of rehearsals and countless blister plasters have gone into creating a new production of Swan Lake.
Duchy Ballet's team of dressmakers completed no less than 40 swan and cygnet outfits in time for yesterday's opening show. Ballerinas – led by principal dancers Phillip Velinov and Natalia Ashikhmina from Louisville Ballet in Kentucky – have been rehearsing for the Hall for Cornwall shows since December.
Artistic director Kay Jones, who plays the Queen Mother, said: "The preparations have gone really well and everyone is very excited about the performances.
"The dancers worked extremely hard in rehearsals and were very excited about working with our principal dancers.
"The team behind the scenes has done an incredible job with the costumes, lighting and set. As well as 40 swan and cygnet costumes, the designs for the big waltz have all been lovingly created and are a feast for the eye on stage."
Asked how much material, cotton and sequins had been used, Kay said: "We're unable to give a definitive answer – all we know is it's a lot. The dancers have also used hundreds of plasters on their toes."
Duchy Ballet's Swan Lake continues at the Hall for Cornwall with two shows today at 2pm and 7.30pm. To book tickets, visit www.hallforcornwall. co.uk or call the box office on 01872 262466.
