Metropolitan Youth Ballet presents Swan Lake May 23 at STAR Bank Performing Arts Center

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Metropolitan Youth Ballet of Indiana (MYB) will present the timeless classic Swan Lake on Saturday, May 23, with performances at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. at the STAR Bank Performing Arts Center, 1000 Mulberry St., Zionsville. Tickets are available at my-ballet.org/swan-lake starting at just $25.

One of the most iconic works in the classical ballet repertoire, Swan Lake is renowned for its sweeping score, dramatic storytelling, and technical demands. MYB’s production features the organization’s pre-professional company alongside guest artists from Louisville Ballet and Grand Rapids Ballet, bringing together emerging and professional talent in a full-length staging designed to inspire audiences of all ages.

“This ballet is truly a cornerstone of classical dance,” MYB Artistic Director Jane Hachiya-Weiner said. “Swan Lake is not only one of the most beloved ballets in the world, but also one of the most challenging. It requires extraordinary discipline, artistry, and unity from the entire cast.”

A story of love, magic & transformation

Swan Lake tells the story of Princess Odette, who has been transformed into a swan by an evil sorcerer and can only return to human form under the cover of night. Prince Siegfried vows to break the spell, but is deceived by Odile, the sorcerer’s daughter – the alluring Black Swan. The ballet unfolds as a tale of love, betrayal, courage, and redemption, brought to life through expressive movement and music.

Training for excellence

MYB is dedicated to providing high-level classical ballet training in a supportive, performance-focused environment. Through rigorous instruction and performance opportunities, dancers develop the technique, strength, and artistry required to take on demanding roles such as those in Swan Lake.

“Our dancers spend years building the foundation needed for a production like this,” Hachiya-Weiner said. “From the principal roles to the corps de ballet, every dancer must demonstrate precision, musicality, and emotional depth. It’s a true ensemble effort.”

Production highlights

Audiences can expect several of ballet’s most celebrated moments, including:

• The dazzling Black Swan pas de deux, featuring the famous 32 fouetté turns
• The iconic Dance of the Little Swans, known for its intricate synchronization
• The ethereal beauty and lyricism of the White Swan (Odette)
• The demanding precision of the corps de ballet, where dancers move in perfect unison to create the illusion of a flock of swans

Featured performers

The roles of Odette (White Swan) and Odile (Black Swan) will be performed by two of MYB’s pre-professional level dancers:

• Anya Stephenson, a senior at Carmel High School – Odette (matinee); Odile (evening)
• Miriam Danek, a student at Cardinal Ritter High School – Odile (matinee); Odette (evening)

Guest artists from Louisville Ballet and Grand Rapids Ballet will join the cast, sharing their professional dance experience and expertise with students, elevating both the dancers’ growth and the overall quality of the production.

• Aleksandr Schroeder, Louisville Ballet Company Artist – Von Rothbart (both shows)
• Fletcher Barr, Louisville Ballet Company Artist – Count Benno (matinee); Prince Sigfried (evening)
• Gabriel Weiner, Grand Rapids Ballet Apprentice – Prince Sigfried (matinee); Count Benno (evening)

A full ballet experience

In addition to the performance, MYB invites audiences to enjoy a complete “ballet experience” in the theater lobby. Activities included with each ticket feature:

• The Ballet Boutique, offering ballet- and Swan Lake-inspired gifts
• The Swans’ Sweets Table with themed treats
• A post-show Cast Meet & Greet
• Photo booths and interactive displays in a beautifully decorated lobby
• MYB info table to learn more about summer programs, fall classes, and upcoming performances

Making classical ballet accessible

Through productions like Swan Lake, MYB aims to keep classical ballet vibrant, relevant, and accessible to the community.

“We believe these great works should be experienced by everyone,” Hachiya-Weiner said. “By presenting full-length ballets with high production value and engaging experiences, at affordable prices, we hope to inspire both seasoned patrons and first-time audience members.”