On May 9th Hope Garden Children’s Ballet Theatre’s presented its annual spring show, inspired by everyone’s favorite fairy tales and fables. Due to scheduling conflicts, the show was not presented at Whalen Commons in Poolesville, as had become the norm, but was instead housed at the Bender JCC of Greater Washington in Rockville, HGCBT’s home for their holiday productions every December. 

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This year’s list of stories inspired beautiful dancing and choreography, presented in two stunning, but very different acts. Act one featured a quick-paced blitz of multiple dance disciplines, ages and abilities, displaying to the audience the dancers’ excitement and growing skills. Ballet, tap, jazz, and contemporary numbers were presented to familiar music from everyone’s favorite fairy tales. From a group of tiny Cinderellas to Puss and Boots to Bluebirds from Sleeping Beauty, the variety of characters, dance genres, themes and ages gave every audience member a reason  to be proud, happy and charmed. 

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Act II presented the second act of one of the world’s favorite story ballets, “Giselle.” The exquisite and sophisticated dancing and acting, enhanced by delicate lighting and moody scenery, simply overwhelmed the audience. Sava Brizhik and Kate Borman, as the characters Albrecth and Giselle, displayed the skills that have them both being encouraged to pursue dance professionally. But more importantly, they poured their hearts into their combined performance, and expertly told this haunting story of love and heartbreak. 

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Gabrielle Stradley, with strong movement and fierce resolve, became Myrtha, the queen of the spirits. Graduating seniors Elizabeth Tchorni and Kendal Zimmerman, as Myrtha’s maidens, danced with grace and elegance, exuding the mournful and tragic nature of the spirits in the woods. The corp of six spirits, while exhuding their pain and resolve, danced with skill and clarity, displaying beautifully smooth synchronization. 

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As is common in ballet, both audiences enthusiastically clapped and cheered for specific elements of the act. But at times they were stunned to silence by brilliant or poignant moments. As the curtain closed both audiences leapt to their feet, giving these young artists the standing ovation their hard work and artisty deserved.  

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After a few minutes in the lobby after each show, Artistic Director Claire Jones noted that “It is always so rewarding to see the audience leave the theater with big, happy smiles on their faces. And tonight, mixed in with the smiles, I saw a lot of wide-eyed, shocked faces; parents and friends who seemed a little taken aback by what these wonderful kids had just done. I am so thrilled for all of the dancers, and so very proud!” 

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Join the talented and dedicated dancers of HGCBT this December for "A Winter's Eve, Celebrating the Holidays of the Season In Dance." There will be two performances at the Bender JCC on December 5, 2026. Tickets will be available in October.