CINDERELLA STORY: Princeton Youth Ballet’s upcoming production of “Cinderella” stars Mackenzie Klaus in the title role, partnered by Alastair Donofrio as the Prince.

Princeton Youth Ballet (PYB) invites the community to celebrate Mother’s Day with its production of Cinderella, choreographed by former Artistic Director Risa Kaplowitz and adapted by current Artistic Director Talin Kenar. Performances, at the Princeton High School Performing Arts Center, are Saturday and Sunday, May 10 and 11 at 4 p.m.

The ballet features a cast of more than 60 young artists. Projection backdrops were created by Raymond DeVoe, and bespoke costumes have been reimagined this season by artist Anne Schwantes.
The ballet transports the audience to Cinderella’s cottage, a royal ballroom, and an enchanted garden, where amidst songbirds, woodland creatures, and butterflies, Cinderella, with the help of her Fairy Godmother, discovers the enduring power of her mother’s love.

The title role will be danced by high school sophomore Mackenzie Klaus, and the role of the Prince is taken by PYB alumnus Alastair Donofrio, a freshman student in the Ailey/Fordham BFA Program in Manhattan.

Founded in 2005 by Susan Jaffe and Kaplowitz, PYB’s mission is to provide professional-level performance opportunities to talented young dancers and invite the community to fall in love with classical ballet. “PYB provides a professional environment for aspiring young dancers to develop artistry and technique,” said Kenar. “During PYB rehearsals, 8-year-olds look on as the most advanced dancers in the company rehearse. The transmission of passion and skill from the artistic staff of former professional dancers to pre-professional advanced students and the littlest dancers in the group alike is inspirational.”

Cinderella is family-friendly for audiences 4 years of age and older. Tickets are $25 in advance ($30 at the door). Visit princetonyouthballet.org.

The company will hold a raffle for three Diamondpointes pointe shoes (valued at over $250 each) currently available for retail purchase only at the Met Opera Shop. A portion of the raffle proceeds will be used to support PYB’s community programs and dancer scholarships.