L’Académie de danse classique brings Coppélia to life

Based on the tale by Hoffmann, this ballet tells the story of a young couple, Swanilda and Franz, who’s lives are disrupted by the village dollmaker, who has created a mechanical doll so lifelike, that everyone who sees it imagines it to be a beautiful girl. After an eventful night in Dr. Coppélius’s workshop the couple discover that Coppélia is only a doll. Like all truly romantic ballets, the story ends with the marriage of Swanilda and Franz.

With its wonderful story, colourful costumes and lively music by Léo Delibes, this ballet will please first time ballet-goers as well as true classical enthusiasts. Artistic director, Linda Marchand, says that this is one of her all time favorite ballets and that bringing it to the stage has been an absolute pleasure.

This year, audiences will be introduced to two new dancers in the lead roles of Swanilda and Franz. Swanilda will be danced by the young and talented Julia Lipari-Couture who’s smile and charisma will capture the hearts of everyone. She will be partnered by French dancer Joffrey Dambour, who’s years of experience as both a dancer and actor contribute to a truly memorable portrayal of the mischievious Franz. The role of the eccentric dollmaker, Dr. Coppélius, will be played by Brian Simmons. Audiences will remember Brian from his unforgettable performances in Don Quichote, Cinderella, and la Fille Mal Gardée. They will be joined by a talented cast of over fifty dancers, including soloists Suzanne de Bellefeuille, Michelle Mayo and a cameo by Jessie Earley.

The evening would not be complete if it didn’t open with the ever- charming Junior School. This year’s production, “The Wizard of Oz”, will surely enchant and impress you. Katia Lacelle’s wonderful creativity and choreography, for over 60 students, will take you on a magical journey with Dorothy, the lion, the scarecrow, the tinman and all the characters they meet along the yellow brick road.

There will also be a new jazz piece, choreographed by Wendy Longlade, that will surely get you dancing in your seat. The modern I students will pesent a new creation by Katia Lacelle and the advanced modern dance class will present a new work choreographed by teacher and artistic director Linda Marchand.

The students and teachers of L’Académie de Danse Classique invite you to come and share their passion for dance. It’s an opportunity for you to support the young artists in your community while enjoying a memorable evening of dance for the whole family.