Holly and Ava step into Wonderland
Local dancers Holly Phillips and Ava Vilcins are currently performing in The Australian Ballet’s “Alice in Wonderland”.
11-year-old Holly of Drouin and 10-year-old Ava of Warragul are cast as hedgehogs in the internationally acclaimed production translating Lewis Carroll’s story into dance.
The two girls, who attend KC’s School of Dance in Warragul and an extension program at The Australian Ballet School, are amongst only eight children in two casts.
They travelled to Melbourne for 11 rehearsals ahead of the season opening at the Melbourne Arts Centre last Tuesday. The ballet will continue to Saturday, September 30.
Holly and Ava said they were excited by the opportunity to perform with The Australian Ballet. Their role as hedgehogs sees them involved in the croquet scene as well as others featuring the Queen of Hearts.
“It’s really exciting to be part of the show,” said Ava. “It’s really amazing watching all the really good dancers rehearsing and everything.”
For Holly, this is her second Australian Ballet casting this year. She was earlier cast in “Nutcracker – The Story of Clara”.
Holly said her favourite part of rehearsals had been watching the principal dancers.
“When we’re rehearsing, you see them walking past. It’s just really cool and amazing,” she said.
Warragul teacher Karen Freeman congratulated the girls.
“It’s gives them a sense of the whole professional world and lights a little fire in their belly,” she said.