Snow Maiden's Heart Melts with Local Ballet Dancers

Two local dancers figure prominently in a Lodi ballet company’s upcoming production of a classic Russian fairy tale, Snow Maiden: Winter Vignettes.

The International Ballet Children’s Theater will put on performances Jan. 14-15 at its W. Pine Street institute in Lodi and Jan. 21 at the Children’s Museum of Stockton.

The production, featuring music by Tchaikovsky, comes from the old Russian tale of the Snow Maiden, who longs for the companionship of humans. When the Snow Maiden falls for an ordinary shepherd, her mother Spring grants her the ability to know love. But as soon as she does, the Snow Maiden’s heart warms and she melts.

In the adaptation created by Alexei Badrak and Ronna Roberts, Bo-Yee Gucciardo of Elk Grove will play the title role of the Snow Maiden, while another Elk Grove resident, Rachell Alger, will perform as the Snow Queen.

Badrak, an internationally-renowned choreographer, designed the performance’s dance sequences, said Roberts.

Each production will immediately be followed by a Winter Festival and Snow Maiden Tea with raffle, hors d'oeuvres and games.

Tickets are $5. To reserve tickets for the first two performances, call (209) 465-7588. To reserve a ticket for the Stockton show, call (209) 465-4386.