On June 3, 2023, Hope Garden Children's Ballet Theatre showcased the students of Essence Studios, Dance & Performing Arts, providing the Poolesville region with two wonderful opportunities to experience one art discipline, based on another!

​

The theme and title, "Leaping Off the Canvas," took inspiration from a wide variety of famous artworks, including paintings by Degas, O'Keefe, Monet and others. The sixteen pieces of the first act were all original choreographic works by Essence Studios staff, featuring ballet, jazz/contemporary, tap and even hip-hop, danced to a broad range of music, from Vivaldi’s “The Four Seasons” to pieces by Dolly Parton, Lady Gaga and Beyonce! 

​

After a brief intermission, a short second act featured an original interpretation of act 2 of the classic "Coppelia," also choregraphed by Ms. Jones, in the spirit of the classic Bolshoi version. The fun story and crazy characters gave the dancers a wonderful chance to show the enthusiastic audience their acting and storytelling abilities. Poolesville High School senior Anna Porch gave a stunning farewell performance as Swanilda, Emma Pioli brilliantly performed the crazy role of Dr. Coppelius, and Kate Borman dazzled as the mechanical Coppelia Doll.  

 

The large audiences, full of new faces, made it clear that the northwest region of Montgomery County is enthusiastic for the performing arts, and that HGCBT will be be doing its part to fill that void for years to come!