Dancers take plunge with new show

An 85-person ballet extravaganza will pirouette its way around Southwell School Centre of Performing Arts today.

The Judith Ward School of Dance performs once every two years, and students have been practising for Ocean Fantasy since August.

The marine-themed concert features one routine set on the beach and another underwater.

The dancers, who range in age from 5 to 20, were all excited about the chance to wear their costumes for the first time at yesterday's dress rehearsal. "The dress rehearsal is where it all comes to life," head of school Judith Ward said.

She also acknowledged the help of parents and their organisational efforts. "We really couldn't do it without them."

The group have been busy selling tickets for the event and Ms Ward said they were not far from selling out the 398-seat theatre.

* Two performances are set for today – 11am and 7pm. Door sales cost $15 for adults and $7 for children.

- © Fairfax NZ News