SAN ANTONIO — A new twist on a Disney classic is coming soon to San Antonio.
The Children's Ballet of San Antonio will be performing Aladdin and the Wonderful Lamp, based on the classic story from The Book of One Thousand and One Nights. There will be three shows performed at the Majestic Theatre on May 6 and 7.
The story of the poor young man, a beautiful princess, an evil sorcerer and a magical genie will be told through talented young dancers, singers and other performers from San Antonio. Dance numbers include ballet, hip-hop, jazz, tap and contemporary styles. Some of the classical dancers include elite artists who have trained in academies around the world. The cast also includes talented actors, musicians and gymnasts to bring the classic tale to life.
"Create this magical environment that the audience feels like they are transported to a different place," said Vanessa Bessler, Founder and Artistic Director of the Children's Ballet of San Antonio.
The show will feature choreography from award-winning choreographers: CEO of CBSA Vanessa Bessler, Nick Fearon and Feleacia Quezergue. They are joined by choreographer Karen Barbee, who specializes in the cultural dances of the land of Aladdin.
"We also have been very careful to pay attention to the cultural elements because we want to make it very real and authentic," said Bessler.
The score includes a combination of the classic Disney orchestral scores from Aladdin and original live scores created specifically for CBSA by local French Lebanese composer Gabriel Nohra.
The Children's Ballet of San Antonio is a launching pad for young dancers to get to the top ballet academies in the world.
"It's very rewarding seeing the kids develop through our programs," said Bessler. "You see them starting from little snowflakes in one production then they start climbing up the roles."
The performances are Friday, May 6, 7-9 p.m., Saturday, May 7, 2-4 p.m., and Saturday, May 7, 7-9 p.m. at the Majestic Theatre at 224 E. Houston Street. Click here for tickets.
All proceeds from the event go directly to CBSA and its mission of providing dance opportunities to children of all backgrounds and skill levels. Donations from the event will benefit dance scholarships for students with special needs and underserved youth, as well as the transportation and organization of Title 1 school students to attend each performance.
"The arts give you a different view of life," said Bessler. "They stimulate the brain, the imagination, the artistic side of every kid."
Funds also go to the production costs of theatre, costumes, lights and special effects that allow these dancers to perform in high-quality productions at San Antonio's top theatres.