Cinderella

Imagine Ballet Theatre Presents World Premiere Ballet: Cinderella

Ogden Utah, 2/29/2024 – Imagine Ballet Theatre is thrilled to announce the world premiere of its breathtaking ballet production, Cinderella, set to captivate audiences on April 26th and 27th. This timeless fairy tale comes to life on stage in an enchanting display of grace, talent, and creativity.

Prepare to be transported into the magical world of Cinderella as Imagine Ballet Theatre brings this beloved story to the stage. With mesmerizing choreography by Raymond Van Mason, stunning costumes, live orchestra, and a talented cast of dancers, audiences of all ages are sure to be spellbound by this extraordinary production.

“I am proud to present this Three Act Ballet. It’s the biggest performance we have ever created.” said Raymond Van Mason, Artistic Director of Imagine Ballet Theatre. “It has been a joy to discover how to tell a story that has been told a million times, in my own movements, with my own vision coming to life before me.”

Cinderella promises to be a feast for the senses, blending classical ballet with innovative storytelling to create a truly unforgettable experience. Imagine Ballet Theatre will be performing to the enchanting score by Sergei Prokofiev, accompanied by the Ogden Chamber Orchestra, adding an extra layer of depth and emotion to this timeless tale.

The performances will take place at the Peery’s Egyptian Theatre located at 2415 Washington Blvd, Ogden, Utah, on April 26th at 7:00 and April 27th at 2:00 and 7:00. Tickets are available for purchase online at ogdenpet.com or by contacting the box office at 801-689-8700.

Don’t miss your chance to witness the magic of Cinderella as Imagine Ballet Theatre presents this world premiere ballet event. Join us for an evening of wonder, beauty, and dreams come true.

Be a Star! Sponsor a Star!

Imagine Ballet Theatre is holding a fundraiser to raise money for a Star Drop for our new production of Cinderella! There are five levels of donating, with different incentives.

The Fairy God Mother Star – $750.00 (Limited to 2 purchases)Includes your name on a star in our program! We will have a page of stars dedicated to our generous donors printed in our program. Also includes opening night box seats (15 total) and 4 Invitations for Cinderella’s Starry Night Party!

The Winter Star – $650.00 (Limited to 4 purchases)Includes your name on a star in our program! We will have a page of stars dedicated to our generous donors printed in our program. Also includes either Saturday show box seats (15 total)

The Spring Star – $500.00 Includes your name on a star in our program! We will have a page of stars dedicated to our generous donors printed in our program. Also includes 2 $30.00 Tickets and 2 Invitations to Cinderella’s Starry Night Party!

The Summer Star – $250.00Includes your name on a star in our program! We will have a page of stars dedicated to our generous donors printed in our program. Also includes 2 $30.00 Tickets!

The Autumn Star – $100.00Includes your name on a star in our program! We will have a page of stars dedicated to our generous donors printed in our program.

Please call to donate! Or you can bring cash, a check or venmo us! Please include the name for your star, plus your address and phone number!

Fundraiser ends March 10th

Company Auditions! 2024

🩰✨ AUDITION OPPORTUNITY ✨🩰

Join our dance family! We’re excited to invite passionate dancers ages 9 and up, including adults, to audition for our company on January 20th. Here are the details:

🗓 Date: January 20th
🕤 Registration: 9:30 AM – 9:45 AM
💃 Audition: 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM
📍 Location: Imagine Ballet Theatre Studios 2432 Washington Blvd, Ogden Utah 84401

Dress code:
👧 Girls: Black leotard, pink tights, pointe shoes if applicable
👦 Boys: White shirt, black tights

💲 Registration Fee: $25

Requirements:
📄 Dance resume (small or large)
📸 First arabesque picture

What’s in store for you?
🌈 Full season commitment (January – December)
🎭 Participation in our Spring Show (To be Announced)
🎄 Involvement in the magical Nutcracker AND everything in between!

Don’t miss the chance to be part of something extraordinary! 🌟 Spread the word and let the dance journey begin. For any inquiries, feel free to message us.

2023 Class Schedule!

MONDAYS

Studio 1: 4:00 – 5:30 Beginning Ballet I

5:30 – 7:00 Advanced Ballet

7:00 – 8:00 Variations

Studio 2: 4:30 – 5:30 PALS

5:30 – 7:00 Ballet II

7:00 – 8:00 Beginning Variations

TUESDAYS

Studio 1: 4:00 – 5:30 Beginning Pointe/Ballet II

5:30 – 7:00 Advanced Ballet

7:00 – 8:00 Variations

Studio 2: 3:00 – 3:50 Music & Movement

4:00 – 5:00 Pre-ballet

5:00 – 6:30 Beginning Ballet I

7:00 – 8:30 Adult Ballet

WEDNESDAYS

Studio 1: 4:00 – 5:30 Ballet II

5:30 – 7:00 Advanced Ballet

Studio 2: 4:00 – 5:30 Advanced Modern

5:30 – 6:30 Beginning Modern

THURSDAYS

Studio 1: 4:00 – 5:30 Intermediate Pointe

5:30 – 7:30 Advanced Pointe

Studio 2: 3:00 – 3:50 Music & Movement

4:00 – 5:00 Pre-ballet

5:00 – 6:30 Beginning Ballet I

2023 Nutcracker Auditions!

Discover the Magic: Imagine Ballet Theatre Nutcracker Auditions on August 26th

Prepare to immerse yourself in the enchanting world of “The Nutcracker” and follow your dreams of being part of this timeless ballet production. Imagine Ballet Theatre is excited to announce their upcoming auditions for “The Nutcracker,” taking place on Saturday August 26, 2023. In this post, we’ll provide you with all the essential details about this extraordinary opportunity. Ballet experience is not required! Don’t miss your chance to be part of the magic!

  1. About Imagine Ballet Theatre:
    Imagine Ballet Theatre is a renowned pre-professional ballet company recognized for their commitment to excellence and their support for young talent. They deliver exceptional dance performances year-round, providing a platform for aspiring dancers to showcase their passion and skills.

  1. Audition Details: $25.00 Audition fee
    Date: August 26th
    Location: Imagine Ballet Theatre Studios, 2432 Washington Blvd
  • Audition 1: Ages 5-12
    Time: Registration 9:30 AM – 10:00 AM Audition: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
  • Audition 2: Ages 12+
    Time: Registration 11:30 AM – 12:00 PM Audition: 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM

Dress Code: Girls please wear a black leotard with pink tights and pink technique shoes. Boys please wear a white shirt with black tights and black technique shoes. For audition 2 bring pointe shoes if applicable.

Signatures required from parents/guardians for anyone under 18.

  1. Audition Process:
    Imagine Ballet Theatre’s auditions for “The Nutcracker” are open to all, regardless of ballet experience. They aim to discover and nurture raw talent, offering an inclusive opportunity for dancers of different backgrounds and skill levels. The auditions will involve warm-up exercises, basic dance movements, and a chance to showcase your passion for performing.

  1. Preparation Tips:
  • Familiarize yourself with “The Nutcracker”: Watch videos or read about the story and characters to understand the ballet’s essence.
  • Practice basic dance movements: Focus on developing coordination, rhythm, and expressiveness in your movements. Enrolling in a ballet class if you already aren’t is a requirement to participate if accepted.
  • Bring your enthusiasm: Show your love for performing and your willingness to learn. Your attitude and dedication can make a significant impact.
  1. What to Expect:
    By participating in the auditions, you’ll have the chance to become part of the magical world of “The Nutcracker.” Imagine Ballet Theatre welcomes dancers with varying levels of experience, recognizing the potential in each individual. You’ll have the opportunity to learn from professionals, grow as a dancer, and embrace the joy of performing in this iconic ballet production.
  2. Stay Positive and Enjoy the Experience:
    Remember that auditions are an exciting opportunity to express yourself and explore your passion for dance. Embrace the experience, be confident, and have fun during the process. Regardless of the outcome, auditions offer valuable learning and growth opportunities for everyone involved.


Prepare to experience the wonder of “The Nutcracker” by joining Imagine Ballet Theatre for their auditions on Saturday August 26, 2023. No ballet experience is required, making this an inclusive opportunity for aspiring dancers of all backgrounds and skill levels. Don’t miss your chance to be part of the magic—mark your calendar, bring your enthusiasm, and step into the world of “The Nutcracker.”

IBT Open House!

🌟 Exciting News! 🌟

🎉 Imagine Ballet Theatre Student Open House 🎉

Attention dance enthusiasts and aspiring ballerinas! We’re thrilled to announce the upcoming Student Open House at Imagine Ballet Theatre on August 5th, 2023. 🩰✨

Are you ready to unleash your inner grace and take your dance journey to new heights? Join us for an enchanting day filled with inspiring workshops, captivating performances, and an opportunity to experience the magic of ballet firsthand. 🌟

📆 Date: August 5th, 2023

⏰ Time: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM

📍 Location: Imagine Ballet Theatre, 2432 Washington Blvd

✨ What to expect: 🌸 Exclusive workshops taught by our talented instructors. 🌸 Engaging ballet demonstrations showcasing the beauty and precision of this timeless art form. 🌸 An inside look into our renowned ballet training programs for all ages and levels. 🌸 A chance to meet our passionate faculty and learn about their extensive experience. 🌸 Q&A sessions to address any questions you may have about our classes or curriculum.

Whether you’re a seasoned dancer or just starting your ballet journey, our Student Open House is the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of ballet and discover the wonders of Imagine Ballet Theatre.

Don’t miss out on this unforgettable experience! Mark your calendars and join us on August 5th. Spread the word and bring your friends along to share in the magic. 🌟

We can’t wait to meet you and embark on a beautiful dance adventure together. See you at Imagine Ballet Theatre on August 5th! 💃✨

Here is a schedule of events for the day!

10:00 Open House Begins

10:30 Sample Ballet Class

11:00 Dancers Perform

11:30 Sample Modern Class

12:00 Dancers Perform

12:30 Sample Ballet Class

1:00 Sample Modern Class

2:00 End of Open House

American Ballet Competition 2024

May 29th – June 1st

AGE DIVISIONS

The American Ballet Competition has three age divisions.
Age of each competitor is determined as of June 1.

DIVISION I

Pre-Competitive: Ages 9
Pre-teen: Age 10 to 12

DIVISION II

Juniors: Ages 13 to 15

DIVISION III

Seniors: Ages 16 to 20

CATEGORIES

CLASSICAL BALLET SOLOS

Variations selected from the classical ballet repertoire are to be chosen from ABC’s approved variation list – see Music.

Variation maximum time limit: 2.5 minutes in length.

CONTEMPORARY SOLOS

Contemporary Dance is a genre of concert dance that uses methods found in modern, post-modern as well as classical and neo-classical ballet. Contemporary is based on the evolving philosophies of dance movement that often omits structured movement and form and draws on modern dance techniques. Some of the dance techniques and philosophies used includes those of the pioneers of contemporary dance such as Martha Graham, Loie Fuller, Jose Limon, Ruth St. Dennis, Merce Cunningham, Doris Humphrey and Mary Wigman, to name a few.

No tap or extreme hip-hop is to be incorporated in contemporary solo. Jazz and lyrical may be integrated as the choreography may require. Contemporary solos may be performed on or off pointe.

Contemporary solos time limits: no longer than 2.5 minutes and no shorter than 1.5 minutes.

ENSEMBLES

Ensembles include duets, trios, groups of 4-30 dancers and Classical Pas de Deux couples.

Choreography may be from the classical ballet repertory or original choreography combining elements of contemporary and classical dance styles.

Ensemble time limits:
Duets & Trios – up to 3 minutes
Ensembles – 4 to 9 dancers up to 3:45 minutes; 10-20 dancers up to 5:30 minutes; 21-30 dancers up to 7 minutes

Pas de deux – up to 6 minutes, may include adagio and coda sections. No variations.

50 States Initiative

We understand the importance of nurturing and supporting emerging talent, which is why an anonymous donor has offered dance scholarships to ballet students from each state across the nation. We believe that every aspiring ballet dancer deserves a chance to participate and grow, regardless of their financial circumstances. This scholarship will cover the full entry fee for one participant from each state to compete at this national competition American Ballet Competition in June 2024 in beautiful Ogden, Utah.

https://americanballetcompetition.org/

Alice: Adventures in Wonderland

Imagine Ballet Theatre will present the ballet “Alice: Adventures in Wonderland,” based on the beloved novel by Lewis Carroll, this spring. The full-length ballet features choreography by IBT Artistic Director Raymond Van Mason. The company will offer three opportunities to see the show in Ogden on May 12th and 13th at the Allred Theater at Weber State University.

Van Mason’s ballet tells the story of Alice, a young girl who falls down a rabbit hole and finds herself in a magical and unusual world. In search of the elusive White Rabbit, Alice meets and interacts with the odd characters in Wonderland throughout her journey, which ultimately ends in mayhem in the Queen of Hearts’ court. Van Mason’s choreography stays true to the fun and often chaotic intertwining personalities in the classic Carroll book, and audience members can look forward to seeing all their favorite characters in a new yet familiar way, from the Cheshire Cat to the Mad Hatter and the Doormouse.

The buoyant score, composed by Joseph Horovitz, translates beautifully to the quirky and playful style of the overall story. Nicolas Maughan will play the score on just the piano. This music was commissioned by London Festival Ballet in 1953, Coronation year for Queen Elizabeth II. IBT is the only Company allowed to use this score for performances.

Keeping with tradition, Imagine Ballet Theatre’s “Alice” will also pull from the local community to bring the ballet to life. Sherry Ferrin, a well-known Ogden artist, hand-painted the enormous backdrop for the stage, while additional set pieces and props have been constructed by other artisans in the area.

https://weber.evenue.net/cgi-bin/ncommerce3/SEGetEventList?groupCode=D&linkID=weber-multi&shopperContext=&caller=&appCode=

Meet the Composer, Joseph Horovitz and the Pianist, Nicholas Maughan!

JOSEPH  HOROVITZ   was born in Vienna, Austria, in 1926 and settled in England in 1938.  After gaining a music degree from Oxford, he studied at the Royal College of Music, London, and with Nadia Boulanger in Paris.  His first contact with ballet was as rehearsal pianist for Boris Kochno. He became Music Director of the Bristol Old Vic Theatre in 1950 and then conductor of the Ballets Russes on its final UK tour under Serge Grigoriev, Diaghilev’s Ballet Master. They premiered his first major ballet score, Les Femmes d’Alger, at London’s Festival Hall in 1952. 

In 1953 Anton Dolin commissioned him to write the music for Alice in Wonderland, London Festival Ballet’s contribution to Coronation Year. It ran for three years in Britain, Europe, North and South America and was televised by the BBC . Revivals have since been staged in USA, Britain, Germany, Austria and New Zealand. Ben Stevenson’s production for Houston Ballet in 1992 resulted in seasons in Atlanta, Salt Lake City, Pittsburgh, Louisville and Fort Worth, Texas. A recent version has been performed by the National Youth Ballet of Great Britain (choreography Wayne Sleep) for three seasons.

In all Horovitz has composed twelve ballets, including Concerto for Dancers for the Edinburgh Festival and Miss Carter Wore Pink for Britain’s Northern Ballet Theatre, and has made a complete revision of the score for Giselle, commissioned by the Royal Ballet in 1990, with frequent revivals, the latest currently showing at the Royal Opera House, London.

His compositions range widely: concertos for oboe, clarinet, violin, euphonium, tuba, percussion, trumpet, oboe and Jazz Concerto for harpsichord or piano; wind and brass band works, five string quartets and other chamber music;  choral works including an oratorio (Samson), humorous cantatas for the Hoffnung Concerts and the popular Captain Noah and his Floating Zoo, sung in six different languages and televised as an animated film and a children’s ballet; two one-act operas and a full-length opera, Ninotchka, and over seventy TV scores such as Lillie, Agatha Christie and Dorothy L. Sayers series, two BBC Shakespeare plays (Twelfth Night and The Tempest), Dorian Gray and Rumpole of the Bailey.

 A Fellow of the Royal College of Music, London, he was President of the International Council of Composers and Lyricists (CIAM) from 1981 to 1989. He holds two Ivor Novello Awards, the Commonwealth Medal for Composition, the Gold Order of Merit of the City of Vienna, the Nino Rota Prize of Italy, the Austrian Cross of Honor for Science and Art First Class, and the Cobbett Medal of the Worshipful Company of Musicians, UK.

Whether Nicholas Maughan is music directing a production of Rocky Horror at a barn in Kennebunkport, Maine, coaching a high school violinist on the Mendelssohn Concerto, or playing tunes from Wicked with Kristin Chenoweth and the Utah Symphony, he is at a piano doing what he loves: making music with other people.

Collaboration is the theme in Nic’s musical life. His first piano lessons, taught by his mother, included duets. He was accompanying choirs in middle school and high school. At Utah State (Charlene Shelzi Jarvis, Annette Colledge) and Weber State (Ralph van der Beek), Nic worked extensively with singers and string players. Nic credits much of his ability to adapt his playing to “styles-beyond-classical” to the work he did under the mentorship of Jim Christian (musical theater), Viktor Uzur (chamber music), and Cristin Tillinghast (voice).

Currently, Nic enjoys working as the full time Company Pianist at Ballet West, where he’s able to incorporate all kinds of musical favorites into his playlist for Company class. Dancers might hear anything from Scarlatti & Chopin to Jerome Kern & Katy Perry.  Nic finds the ballet repertoire (Tchaikovsky, Prokofiev, Stravinsky, and more) challenging and exciting. This season, he’s enjoyed performing Concerto Barocco (Balanchine/Bach), Rodeo (De Mille/Copland) and In the Night (Robbins/Chopin). Nic very much enjoys performing as a member of the Ballet West Orchestra.

Nic is looking forward to playing Alice in Wonderland with Imagine Ballet Theater this Spring.

Special projects during the 2022-2023 season included performing the world premiere of Alfonso Tenreiro’s Piano Concerto 1 with Dr. Michael Palumbo and Chamber Orchestra Ogden, the world premiere of J. Taylor Arnold’s The Bitter Price with NEXTensemble, and expanding Nic’s original score for choreographer Jessica Baynes’ modern dance piece, Bloom, a Grantee of Salt Lake City’s Arts Council’s 2022 Artist Career Empowerment Grant.

You can hear Nic on Aubrey Adams-McMillan’s 2021 album, Beautiful Dreamer, and Ginger Bess’s 2014 album, Give Me the Simple Life, available on all streaming services.

Sugarplum Tea Party!

The Sugar Plum Fairy invites you to be her special guest at a magical celebration of all things sweet! Join us at Imagine Ballet Theatre Studios for one of two limited engagements: 11:00am or 1:00pm on December 3rd, 2022.

Tickets include tea, beverages and sweets as well as special appearances, photo opportunities and intimate performances, by dancers from the Sugar Plum Fairy’s wonderous realm. A mini version of The Nutcracker boutique will also be available.

Link Below to order tickets!
https://ibtsugarplumtea.eventbrite.com/

IBT Company Auditions 2023 – January 14th

Imagine Ballet Theatre is holding Company Auditions January 14th, 2023. Registration for all ages, 9+ are at 9:30 am, the audition class will be 10:00 – 12:00.

Please bring a resume and a first arabesque picture.

If you would like help with resume or pictures contact Fillpot Images at tessafillpot1015@gmail.com for more information.

Joining the Company of IBT is a commitment to the live art of performing. The season starts January 20th and goes through December 23rd. Being a part of the company is a year long study that includes mandatory classes with Imagine Ballet School, at least one summer intensive program, and includes our Spring Show Alice: Adventures in Wonderland and of course, The Nutcracker!

Dancers who are in the company do not have to audition the rest of the year, whereas guest dancers are required to audition for any performance we have, if we hold them.

Being committed to the company throughout the year gives dancers the time to focus on their own dance education, as well as learning to work with a group of people over a long period of time. The longer dancers work together, the more in sync they become, and the better their performing will be for lifetime.

The benefits of being in the company versus guesting in our performances?

Dancing at the Tea Party

Outreach programs at schools and libraries

Performing with the Rocky Mountain Choreography Festival

Other opportunities that IBT is invited to throughout the year

Selling an ad in our program is also a requirement of being in the Company. It’s the one of a few ways to keep our participant fees down, as we do not charge your dancers for Company Class or Rehearsal time, and as a non-profit, we need fundraising help to keep our prices low.

Here are some of the performances we have put on in the last few years. These pieces include: Pillow Party, Not so Proper Princess, Pursuit, Red Balloon, Essence of a Rose, and a modern piece Axyst.

ImagineBalletTheatre