Sparkles, vibrant costumes, graceful pirouettes and soaring melodies are all expected sights and sounds at a ballet—but uproarious laughter? The World Ballet Company’s performance of Cinderella is more than a show for dance aficionados, it’s an evening of classic storylines retold, darkest moments, witty comebacks, hope, and world-class artistry for everyone to enjoy. While the show won’t keep you up until midnight, it’ll keep you holding your breath as you wait for the clock to strike.
The Los Angeles based World Ballet Company has performed in 300 venues nationwide, and was most recently in Fayetteville for their performance of The Great Gatsby Ballet.
“We love coming to your city,” shared Gulya Hartwick, Executive Director of the World Ballet Company.
Anna Deaton Ricuard, Marketing Manager for the Crown Complex, said that previous World Ballet Company performances at the Crown Complex have been well-received.
“Every time people come to one of their performances, they are just enthralled by the quality,” she shared. “People say it’s a magical experience.”
“I dare people to show up and not walk away feeling like they’re part of that magic,” added Gary Rogers, Director of Marketing at the Crown Complex. “We’re always excited to have a variety of different shows and events that kind of encompass the variety of our community.”
He said the event is a chance to “appreciate not only a love fairy tale, but the incredible actors, dancers, athletes, and everything magical that the experience brings.”
While many people are familiar with the story of Cinderella, comparatively fewer have opted to attend a ballet. Hartwick says that because the performance is multifaceted, it is perfect for those who are unfamiliar with ballet or have never attended a performance before.
“I think it’s the perfect Ballet for first-timers because we all know the story,” she explained. She estimated that there are over 1,500 different interpretations of the Cinderella story worldwide, but thinks their choreography offers clarity that will appeal to a wide audience.
“The story is so clear, funny and vivid,” she explained.
The story of this choreography began as early as 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic, when many were isolated.
“We want everyone here to feel the magic without having to fly to New York,” said Hartwick. She explained that choreographer Marina Kesler and others wanted to bring joy to those in isolation without sacrificing tradition, “It just seemed like such a good idea when the whole world was stuck at home, we wanted to create something funny and dynamic that would bring some happiness to the people, without losing the classical style, of course, and keeping traditions alive.”
Hartwick says Kesler’s signature style can be seen in the cinematic effects in the stagings.
The show blends traditional and modern elements, with sets being the main example of that fusion. Gilded pillars and creamsicle clouds are seen behind the dancers, drawing viewers into a surreal scene reminiscent of a palace.
“Traditions are important to us, but we make sure that it reads well on the traditional side. Even our scenery is hand painted, the way it was done 100 years ago. It's like a big canvas painted by hand. And then the modern side of it—we add projection to the show, which is quite an unusual combination.”
But according to Hartwick, the artistry of the dancers is the most enchanting element.
“The ballroom dance scene will give you goosebumps,” she said. With 40 professional dancers seen throughout the show and 150 hand-sewn costumes, viewers will be swept into the shimmer as the World Ballet Company’s troupe of international dancers delight viewers with their grace and charm.
Behind the scenes, Hartwick says it’s only a dedicated rehearsal schedule that makes this performance what it is.
“It’s rehearse, rehearse, rehearse and then perform,” she said of preparations. Rehearsal isn’t only about dance, though, as several characters repeatedly delight the audience with their humor. “They fall in love with the stepsisters and stepmother,” Hartwick said of the audience, “They’re just ridiculously funny and wonderful.”
The evening is perfect for a date night, family time, friends,
and more.
“Bring your kids, bring your friends, and expect to be entertained and amazed,” said Hartwick. Rogers emphasized how perfect the evening is for couples, adding that he’s about to celebrate 10 years of marriage and is always looking for ways to “win big” in marriage.
“A date night like this with a fine dinner?” he shared, “I feel like that’s a way for all men to achieve greatness in their marriage.”
Hartwick says that while tradition and artistry are important elements, she thinks the performance resonates on a deeper level with viewers.
“I think we all need more fairy tales in our lives,” she explained. “Hope, kindness, and courage never go out of style, and the story of Cinderella reminds us to keep dreaming and to meet the world with generosity even when it’s hard.”
The World Ballet Company’s Cinderella will be held on Sept. 26, 6 p.m. at the Crown Complex. Tickets can be purchased at https://www.crowncomplexnc.com/events/detail/world-ballet-company-cinderella