Thumbelina - Winelands Youth Ballet

Experience the Enchantment of Thumbelina

Join us for a mesmerising ballet production of Thumbelina, brought to life by the talented young dancers of Winelands Youth Ballet. This heartwarming tale of a tiny girl on a grand adventure will grace the stage of the Playhouse Theatre in Somerset West from Thursday, 20 March to Saturday, 22 March.

Recently, dancers from across the Helderberg came together for an intensive week of rehearsals, preparing for this magical performance. Winelands Youth Ballet exists to provide young people in the Helderberg and surrounding areas the opportunity to be part of a Youth Ballet Company, fostering collaboration between ballet teachers while promoting ballet, the arts, and the joy of community theatre.

Guided by renowned choreographer Robin van Wyk, whose illustrious career includes professional engagements with NAPAC, PACT, and CAPAB (Cape Town City Ballet), this production promises to captivate audiences of all ages. Van Wyk, who also performed as the Magical Mr Mistoffelees in Cats for four years, has been choreographing children's ballets since 2005. His work has shaped productions for the Port Elizabeth Friendly City Youth Ballet, KZN Midlands Youth Ballet, Zimbabwe Dance Trust, and Windhoek Dance College. Among his many choreographed ballets are Robin Hood, Alice in Wonderland, Peter Pan, Sleeping Beauty, and Thumbelina.

“I felt young dancers needed to experience being part of a large professional stage production,” says Van Wyk. “Within these productions, they learn discipline, teamwork, dance techniques, and stage etiquette. Over the last 20 years, these shows have grown in popularity, with many young dancers going on to become professional ballet dancers or teachers. Dance has a way of bringing joy to children's lives – a joy they will remember for a long time.”

The Helderberg has been abuzz with excitement as dedicated young dancers rehearse tirelessly, embracing the joy of ballet and the spirit of community theatre. This production is more than a performance—it is a celebration of artistry, discipline, and dreams taking flight in the Helderberg community.

Secure your seats soon for this enchanting experience.