Brandon Ballet to Host Spring Production Preview

The Brandon Ballet will host a free preview of its upcoming spring production of "Paquita" Saturday, April 2 from 10:30 a.m. to noon at the Dance Centre, 161 Bloomingdale Ave., Brandon. 

The public is invited to an open dress rehearsal of the production and each guest will receive an educational packet about the choreographer, composer, and history.

Call 813-684-4282 to reserve a spot at the dress rehearsal. This is event is for ages 4 and up.

For the actual performance of "Paquita" April 9 at Spoto High School's auditorium, 8538 Eagle Palm Drive, Riverview, residents can order tickets now by calling 813-684-4282. There will be performances at 3 and 5:30 p.m. Adult tickets are $15, children's tickets are $10 and tickets for seniors are $12. 

The classic ballet tells the story of a gypsy girl, Paquita, who falls in love with a French nobleman, Lucien. Due to social status, the two cannot be together, and the tale takes a dramatic turn as Paquita learns of her true background. 

With a riveting score by composer Ludwig Minkus and original choreography by Marius Petipa, the father of classical ballet, this ballet is one the entire family can enjoy.