Ballet and modern dance bring Aladdin to life

The tale of Aladdin will come to life tonight and tomorrow on the stage of the Mediterranean Conference Centre, in Valletta as the Central Academy of Ballet puts up its latest classical ballet.

Timeless romance and the elegant charm of classical ballet are the main ingredients of the production, which is set to go down in the academy's history as one of its most ambitious projects ever.

The production combines classical ballet with other elements such as modern dance, tap, hip hop, and Spanish dance. All these styles will be fused together to create a modern adaptation of Walt Disney's timeless production.

Over 150 performers will be taking to the stage alongside guest artist Stuart Ferres in the role of the agile Aladdin.

Academy directors Mireille Coleiro and Monique Pellegrini Petit have produced and directed Aladdin, assisted by resident teacher Svetlana Silina. Other guest choreographers include Charles Duca, Gino Camilleri, Marisha Bonnici and Sarah Mercieca.

The production will be performed against a backdrop by Academy Award winning set designer Peter Howitt.

A few tickets are still available from the MCC. The show tonight starts at 7.30 and at 6.30 p.m. tomorrow.