Two talented young dancers from Oldham will take the stage in the upcoming production of *Swan Lake* at Manchester’s Palace Theatre. Elodie Catherall, aged nine, and Evie Fielding, eleven, earned their spots in this prestigious ballet after a rigorous audition process in March.
Audition Highlights
The duo was selected from over 230 hopefuls, joining a cast of 97 young dancers. Both performers train at Kirsten’s Dance Academy in Oldham and have been undergoing an intensive rehearsal schedule to emulate the experience of working in a professional ballet company.
Rehearsal Schedule
- 60 hours of rehearsals over 10 days.
- Daily warm-up classes with the company.
- Full cast performances included.
Elodie shared her enthusiasm, stating, “I started dancing when I was one and a half years old. I just love to dance and perform; it makes me feel so happy.” Meanwhile, Evie reflected on her journey, saying, “I have been dancing day in and day out since my mum took me to baby ballet at two years old.”
Performance Details
The anticipated performances will take place on Friday, June 5, and Saturday, June 6, 2026. They will share the stage with eight international principal artists, enriching their experience further.
Director’s Insight
Janet Lewis OBE, the director of English Youth Ballet, expressed her commitment to nurturing young talent. She stated, “Our goal is to provide performance experience to aspiring dancers in beautiful venues close to their homes.” Lewis noted the rapid progress and positivity displayed by the young dancers during their training.
About Swan Lake
*Swan Lake* is set in 1895 Imperial Russia, telling the story of Odette, a dancer with the Mariinsky Ballet, and Prince Sergei, the son of the Tsar. The narrative weaves love, rivalry, and ambition, making it a timeless classic in the world of ballet.
The participation of these Oldham dancers in such a significant production not only showcases their talent but also highlights the vibrant dance community in the region.
