Sleeping Beauty captivates at premiere
MAGALIESSIG - At the official world premiere of Sleeping Beauty on Ice, the Imperial Ice Stars captivated South African audiences at the Teatro in Montecasino.
Artistic director of the Imperial Ice Stars, Tony Mercer, has succeeded in achieving an incredible vision. In the new production of Sleeping Beauty on Ice, the classic story is portrayed in a totally unique way. Using the talent and prowess of mainly Russian ice dancers, as well as South African Fiona Kirk, the story of Sleeping Beauty has been brought to life.
Mercer’s speciality is theatrical lighting, having earned a name for himself doing lighting at pop concerts in the 1980s. This is evident in the production with amazing displays of special lighting techniques and pyrotechnics.
The title role of Sleeping Beauty, or rather Princess Aurora, alternates between Olga Sharutenko and Anastasia Ignatyeva, but on the official opening night Sharutenko delighted as Princess Lilac, older sister and guiding presence to Princess Aurora. World champion ice dancer Jurijs Salmanovs is powerful and imposing as the evil wizard Carabosse who casts the sleeping spell on Princess Aurora.
Ending the performance with a standing ovation from the crowd, it was clear to see the absolute delight Sleeping Beauty on Ice brought to the audience.
The production is awe-inspiring and is perfect entertainment for young and old alike.
