Princeton Youth Ballet (PYB) presents The Secret Garden at Princeton High School Performing Arts Center (151 Moore Street, Princeton, NJ) on Saturday and Sunday, May 9 and 10 at 4 PM.
Based on the novel by Frances Hodgson Burnett, this classic tale of neglect, nurture, renewal, and love is a perfect way for families to celebrate spring and Mother’s Day after a long, dreary winter. Original projection artwork, created by David Haneman, will transport the audience to India and the English countryside as some of the regions most talented dancers tell the story of Mary Lennox, a troubled and spoiled orphan who is sent to live with her uncle, Mr. Craven, a recluse still bereft after the death of his young wife. Mary discovers the Secret Garden which Mr. Craven has locked away in his grief. With the help of a lively robin, her new friend, Dickon, and the spirit of Mr. Craven’s deceased wife, Mary nurtures the garden back to life and reunites Mr. Craven with his neglected and sickly son, Colin. At the story’s end, Mary and her friends frolic with rabbits, butterflies, bees, and foxes in a garden that has been transformed into a fragrant sanctuary brimming with life.
“When I reread this beloved story, I was inspired to create a new ballet,” says Risa Kaplowitz, Artistic Director of PYB. “Art creates gardens wherever it is given the opportunity to flourish,” she continues, “and PYB is dedicated to giving talented and well-trained home-grown’ dancers the opportunity to blossom by performing principal roles in professional-quality productions.”
Kathy Azaro, President of the PYB Board of Trustees adds, “We share our love of classical ballet with the community through inspired storytelling, magical productions, and uncompromising artistry. And, this year we are pleased to invite everyone to follow PYB on Facebook and watch our video series, Behind the Garden Gates, where each week, viewers will be treated to a sneak peek into the process of bringing The Secret Garden to the stage.”
Tickets are $20 for adults and $15 for children, students, and seniors, when purchased in advance online at www.PrincetonYouthBallet.org or by phone at 1-800-838-3006. Tickets at the door are $25 for adults, and $20 for children, students, and seniors. For group discounts or to learn more about special pricing and programs for Scout troops, email [email protected] or call 609-948-8065.
Princeton Youth Ballet is a not-for-profit 501 (c)(3) organization founded by Artistic Director Risa Kaplowitz and Susan Jaffe in 2005. To learn more, visit www.PrincetonYouthBallet.org and follow PYB on Facebook and Instagram.
