Maine State Ballet
Westbrook, Maine - Maine Stale Ballet proudly presented its premiere performances of "Coppelia" on May 5th and 6th. Their delightful full-length production started with the curtain rising on the square of a small European village in the mid-1800's. To the right was the mysterious-looking house of eccentric Dr. Coppelius, a toy and doll maker believed to possess magical powers.
A cast of over 100 dancers, musicians, and actors danced and delighted the capacity audiences. Fred Bernier was featured as Dr. Coppelius, Janet Miele Davis danced the role of Swanhilda and her fiancé, Franz, was danced by Glenn Davis. The audience enjoyed seeing Dr. Coppelius' dolls come to life and the wedding of Swanhilda and Franz. The bridal couple reappeared at the end of the ballet bringing peace and love back to the village. As wedding bells pealed and flower petals covered the entire stage of dancers, the story came to a happy end.
Maine State Ballet pulled out all the stops for their full-length production with the lively, colorful Leo Delibes' score played by the Maine State Ballet Orchestra, under the baton of Karla Kelley. Live music is essential to Maine State Ballet's performances and created the full theatrical experience. Artistic Director Linda MacArthur Miele, formerly a dancer with the New York City Ballet, melded original choreography with the music.
"Coppelia" offered its audience dazzling scenic designs and costumes created by Associate Director Gail Csoboth. This lavish production was a delight for all ages. For more information about Maine State Ballet, contact 91 Forest Street, Westbrook, ME 04092; 207.856.1663;
E-mail: mainestateballet@earthlink.net; www.mainestateballet.org