Kym Nash, Artistic Director at FarmingtonDANCE, was putting her fairies through their paces. “Flutter! Finish your port-de-bras! Can I have happy faces! We’re happy fairies. We live in the good forest!”

About Town dropped in on one of the first rehearsals for FarmingtonDANCE’s June 12 production of Peter Pan; to be held at the Warner Theatre in Torrington. And, there were a lot of fairies in the room. “We’re very pro fairy in this production,” observed Nash.

“Be sure I can see your back working! Tondu set! I’m looking for clean positions!”

The production is taking its inspiration from the original 1904 J. M. Barrie play, versus the 1953 Disney animated version of Peter Pan, in terms of music and costuming. “It will have a very Victorian feel to it,” insists Nash. In addition, in contrast to modern performances of Peter Pan, with the exception of the grand jetes, there will be no dancers on high wires in this production. Instead, the sets will fly off the stage.

“Float! Ride to the music when you come down! Ta da! Ta da! Ta da! Ta da da! Can you hear it the way I’m hearing it?” 

The choreography for the fairies scene continues to evolve as Nash surveys the big picture, as well as the most petite dancers. As she continues to guide, position, ready and remedy both the dance and the dancers, one can see the girls beginning to enjoy the organic flow that comes from being a fairy; as the pieces come together.

“Finish your fifth before you walk so that it says ooo la la!”

The June 12 performance will not be your typical recital, according to Nash. Dancers from both FarmingtonDANCE’s advanced and recreational programs will be participating in the production, for example. In addition, there will be two different acts: Act I: Peter Pan. Then, after a short intermission, Act II: Join the Circus; The Greatest Show on Earth.

In Act II, there will be seven to eight numbers and costume changes. “We’re known for our quick costume changes,” says Nash. “We'll not only have great choreography on stage, but we'll also have organized choreography back stage as well!

More to come in May….final dress rehearsals.

Here’s the Deal

Farmington Dance, 133 River Road, Canton; 860-693-1800: info@famingtondance.com.