Russian Ballet holds auditions

By Sha’Lace Gregg
Staff Writer

The Willis Ballet is looking for local dancers for the national tour of the Russian Ballet’s "The Nutcracker" this winter. UNCP was the first stop for auditions Oct. 5.

More than 50 people, ranging from 3 ½ to adult, auditioned for several parts in the ballet.

Several children, from a local school of ballet in Lumberton, came to the Givens Performing Arts Center for the auditions.

Photo by Sha’Lace Gregg Several children, from a local school of ballet in Lumberton, came to the GPAC for the auditions.

Samantha Phillips, a teacher at the School of Ballet of Lumberton was on site to try for a part in the ballet. Phillips’ students tried out for roles as well.

"I'm so nervous, but to be able to perform with a real ballet company is what I'm here for," Phillips said.

Peggy Willis from the Willis Ballet was selecting individuals to perform in the ballet.

“I was very pleased; the girls were all very excited about performing. So I think it went very smooth and great," Willis said.

The dancers didn't have to wait long to see if they made the cut. The casting list was posted online at the Willis Ballet website the same evening.

Willis will be staying for two additional days to teach the cast members the scene routines. After that, Katy Carter and LeAnn Hall from the Lumberton School of Dance will be working with the local cast to polish the acts and get them ready for the show.

Willis will be returning the end of November to make sure the cast is ready to perform in the show.

NCP will be the first stop on the tour, Dec. 1.