A Johnstone schoolgirl is to take centre stage in a new show by Scottish Ballet.
Caoimhe Elliott, 10, who is a member of the dance company’s junior associate programme, will perform in Glasgow and Edinburgh with a touring production of Cinders over the winter season.
She is one of six children – three girls and three boys – who will be sharing the role of young Cinders.
According to Scottish Ballet, this “playful new production” will delight audiences with a charming twist on festive favourite Cinderella.
On some nights, Cinders will be a woman, swept off her feet by her prince. On others, Cinders will be a man, swept off his feet by his princess.
Caoimhe, from Elderslie, said she “loved” having the opportunity to play a lead role in the show.
She said: “It’s so exciting and I’m enjoying every moment.
“When I found out I had the role of young Cinders I cried, I felt really lucky and honoured to have been chosen.”
Caoimhe’s proud mum Tracey said: “It was so surreal when we got the call confirming that she had got the role.
“I just couldn’t believe it, as for Caoimhe to even get a callback for the second audition was an achievement in itself.
“She has been in rehearsals for the past three weeks and absolutely loves it.”
Caoimhe will be performing in the Scottish Ballet show at the Theatre Royal, in Glasgow, on Sunday, December 17, and Thursday, December 21, as well as at the Festival Theatre, in Edinburgh, on Thursday, January 11, and Saturday, January 13.
The St Anthony’s Primary pupil, who performed in the dance company’s production of The Snow Queen last year, has also been selected as a finalist in the upcoming Ballet Grand Prix event in Dundee.
Caoimhe was just two-and-a-half years of age when she first joined J&D School of Dance, based in Johnstone.
Tracey said: “Ballet is definitely a passion for her.
“She loves performing and I think she just loses herself when she dances.
“Caoimhe is living the dream and J&D School of Dance have been absolutely amazing in supporting her.”
For more information about Cinders or to book tickets, visit scottishballet.co.uk/whats-on/cinders.
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