The Vyne Theatre opens first music and dance festival
A sold out extravaganza of ballet and contemporary dance by the Acosta Dance Foundation heralded the start of The Vyne Theatre’s first music and dance festival in Berkhamsted on 18 July.
The programme began with a dazzling display of costumes especially designed by Angela Laing of ‘Ballet Vogue’ for The Vyne Ballet Company.
Modelled by young dancers training at The Vyne Academy, these exquisite costumes were last worn during the last nine Vyne galas.
Angela, a former teacher and dancer from Hemel Hempstead, is nationally acclaimed for her talent, with a special recognition by the Royal Academy of Dance for one of the tutus shown on Saturday, The Vyne Theatre director, Corinna Chute told Living.
Angela spoke of the joy of combining her love of dance through The Vyne adult dance programme, and finding a creative outlet for her love of costume design for the company galas.
The main programme included three works showcasing the strength, artistry and versatility of 24 graduating dancers representing the Acosta Dance Foundation.
Starting with the high-powered Spanish dance and concert, and followed by the iconic wedding pas de deux from Don Quixote, the audience was treated to a stunning contemporary work where all the dancers combined in a poignant and beautifully executed finale.
The collaboration between The Vyne and the Acosta Foundation has developed over the last 3 years with regular masterclasses in Cuban technique and a mentorship programme for the developing dancer programme at The Vyne Academy by Javier Torres, former international ballet star and now managing director of the Acosta Dance Foundation.
Announcing the theatre’s future galas programme, both Javier Torres and Corinna Chute expressed the importance of supporting collaborative projects to encourage and inspire students at all levels.
By bringing live performances to communities, the two institutions pledge to support talent with training and performance opportunities for up-and-coming dancers in the heart of Berkhamsted and beyond.
Other festival events are on 8, 16 and 27-29 August, with the next Vyne galas on 5 September at 2.30pm and 3.30pm at the theatre, Northbridge Road, Berkhamsted HP4 1EU.