Ballito’s rising ballet star Hanna van den Barselaar-Smith (12) is preparing to step into the spotlight in her first professional production.

The Grade 7 pupil at Ashton International College Ballito will take to the stage in Mzansi Ballet’s production of Private Presley – The Ballet at Durban’s Milkwood Theatre from February 13 to 15.

Hanna will portray a youthful Lisa Marie Presley in the production, which explores the complexities of Elvis Presley’s personal life, including his relationship with his wife, Priscilla. For the young dancer, stepping into the world of professional ballet is both thrilling and daunting.

“I am honoured to be cast,” she said. “But I am also very nervous and excited to be performing in my first professional ballet.”

Training under Savana Perry and Courtney Koopmans at Studio K in Ballito, Hanna has already earned national recognition, winning numerous awards. These include the prestigious Mabel Ryan Award for Grade 5 Cecchetti ballet.

She scored 94% in her ballet exam and 99% in her Grade 3 modern exam, earning the Association of International Dance Teachers Association Examiners’ Award. She also won seven gold medals at last year’s South African Championships of Performing Arts (SACOPA).

In total, Hanna has accumulated 15 gold medals, four silvers and a bronze across three SACOPA competitions, earning her a place at the World Championships of Performing Arts in Las Vegas in July. In August, she will compete at the 13th South African International Ballet Competition in Cape Town.

Hanna secured her role after auditioning at Montecasino in Johannesburg in November. She later returned for intensive training alongside renowned Mexican dancer Jorge Wade, who plays Elvis, and South African prima ballerina Angela Revie, who portrays Priscilla.

“Training was gruelling (five hours a day), but it was an experience I will never forget,” she said.

“I perform Cecchetti ballet, while Jorge and Angela do a Cuban-style ballet and they are very passionate about their technique. Angela is an exquisite dancer. One day, I hope to have the grace she has. Jorge is so powerful and incredible to watch. I learned a lot during training, they made me a better dancer.”

Tickets available from Webtickets for between R150-200.

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