OPAI ballet theatre to present new, classic pieces

Weeks of preparation and hard work are about to pay off for 14 Ohio Performing Arts Institute ballet dancers ages 12 and older in the pre-professional, professional and apprentice programs.

The artists will perform 10 pieces including originals during the annual Springfield Ballet Theatre at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 12, Friday, Oct. 13 and Saturday, Oct. 14 at the Ohio Performing Arts Institute studio, 1616 E. High St.

“We’re really excited to bring people into our studio,” said D. Scot Davidge, OPAI artistic Director. “Some of these kids take 10 to 15 classes a week.”

Davidge himself will return to perform with three students in a special original piece called “Vampire Blues.” He got an idea and talked to guitar teacher Nathan Goff, who works with OPAI, to add music.

Goff returned with a song and will play it live during the shows.

“I like to have a live musician in with our performances sometimes,” said Davidge.

Another new piece will involve OPAI’s newest choreographer and instructor Rebekah Hurst.

Tickets cost $5 and will be available at the door.

“Don’t let the low price fool you. This is not a kiddie show, it’s some of our most dedicated dancers,” Davidge said.

OPAI will also offer special master classes with professionals in the upcoming weeks. A former Ballet Magnificat!, dancer will be at the studio on Oct. 20 and a dancer with the current tour of “An American in Paris,” to be performed at Dayton’s Schuster Center, will be in on Nov. 11.

“We’re always trying to get in different dancers because you can only get better studying with different people,” said Davidge.


WANT TO GO?

What: Springfield Ballet Theatre

Where: The Ohio Performing Arts Institute, 1616 E. High St., Springfield

When: Thursday, Oct. 12, Friday, Oct. 13 and Saturday, Oct. 14, 7:30 p.m.

Admission: $5

More info: 937-324-7444 or www.facebook.com/ohioperformingartsinstitute/

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