<\/a>Snails (from left to right) Emily Feliciano-Soto and LeaDonna Castillo inch their way forward on Saturday April 16 during rehearsal for “Carnival of the Animals.” Juneau Dance Theatre’s spring showcase will feature performances April 22, 23 and 24. (Ben Hohenstatt \/ Juneau Empire)<\/p><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
“Performing with a live orchestra has been a dream of ours for many years,” said Zachary Hench, who is now in his seventh year as Juneau Dance Theatre’s artistic director, in a news release. “We have collaborated with conductor William Todd Hunt and Orpheus Project, on previous projects, and it is a privilege to add the talents of the Amalga Chamber Orchestra to this year’s showcase.”<\/p>\n\t\t\t\t
It opens at 7 p.m. on Friday, and subsequent showtimes are 2 and 7 p.m. on Saturday and 2 p.m. on Sunday. All performances are at Juneau-Douglas High School: Yadaa.at Kalé’s auditorium.<\/p>\n\t\t\t\t
<\/a>A small school of fish (left to right) Dani Hayes, Andie Reid, Scotlyn Beck and Avery McCarthy take in the action during rehearsal for “Carnival of Animals.” Juneau Dance. (Ben Hohenstatt \/ Juneau Empire)<\/p><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
In the piece, which will be presented in Part 2 of the showcase, a young girl’s piano lessons take an unexpected departure to an extraordinary pet store, where the girl encounters a lively menagerie of animals while attempting to avoid her stern instructor, who would have her return to her piano lesson — and reality.<\/p>\n\t\t\t\t
The ballet is appropriate for all ages, according to the dance theater, and children attending performances will receive a souvenir.<\/p>\n\t\t\t\t
The first part of the two-hour showcase will feature a mixed repertory by students in creative movement through Level 1 ballet, as well as Juneau Dance Theatre’s five dance teams, adult and tap classes. Upper-level students will premiere an original contemporary work, “New Season,” choreographed by Bell.<\/p>\n\t\t\t\t