Artistic Director | Christopher Stuart
Executive Director | Jenny Mann
Choreography | Christopher Stuart after Marius Petipa
Guest Rehearsal Director | Dawn Scannell
Composer | Peter Ilyich Tchaikovsky
Conductor | Carlos Izcaray
Music Performed by | Alabama Symphony Orchestra
Company & Production Stage Manager | Joelle Tucker
Production Manager | David Page
Costume Director | Wendy Gamble
Technical Stage Manager | Liam McElroy
Lighting Designer | Lyndell T. McDonald
Community Cast Coordinator | Natalie Hunt
Community Cast Rehearsal Director | Grace Anli
Costume Assistants | Tara Penkowsky, Leigh Murphree, Elizabeth Gamble
Minion headpieces designed and created by Cammie Windley
The Alabama Ballet dedicates this performance of Sleeping Beauty to the memory of Melissa Nelson, whose love, encouragement, and spirit continue to inspire those who knew her.
The taking of photographs or use of any video or audio recording devices is strictly prohibited.
Sponsored by:
THE HUGH KAUL FOUNDATION
ROBERT R. MEYER FOUNDATION
Joined by the Alabama Symphony Orchestra, made possible by:
The Ballet Guild of Birmingham
Comer Foundation
Prologue
In the royal court, the King and Queen celebrate the christening of their daughter, Princess Aurora. Six fairies arrive to bestow gifts upon the infant princess—grace, joy, generosity, song, temperament, and wisdom—each offering a blessing for her future. Suddenly, the wicked fairy Carabosse storms into the celebration, furious that she was not invited. In revenge, she curses Aurora: on her sixteenth birthday she will prick her finger on a spindle and die. The Lilac Fairy intervenes and softens the curse. Instead of death, Aurora will fall into a deep sleep, to be awakened one day by true love’s kiss.
Act I
Sixteen years later, the court gathers in the palace gardens to celebrate Aurora’s birthday. Friends and suitors join the festivities as the princess dances joyfully, including a graceful dance with four princes who hope to win her hand. During the celebration, a mysterious visitor presents Aurora with a bouquet of flowers, with a spindle hidden inside. Curious, she takes it—and pricks her finger. Carabosse reveals herself as the architect of the curse, and Aurora collapses. The Lilac Fairy returns and casts a powerful spell over the kingdom so that all fall asleep until the princess awakens.
INTERMISSION
Act II
Many years later, a prince is hunting in the forest when the Lilac Fairy appears and shows him a vision of the beautiful Princess Aurora. Captivated, he vows to find her. Guided by the Lilac Fairy, he journeys to the hidden castle, where the sleeping princess lies under the spell. With courage and determination, he overcomes Carabosse’s power and awakens Aurora with a kiss. The spell is broken, and the entire kingdom awakens.
Act III
A grand celebration is held for the wedding of Princess Aurora and her prince. Fairy-tale characters appear to honor the royal couple, performing lively dances and joyous entertainments. The festivities culminate in a magnificent wedding pas de deux for Aurora and her prince, celebrating love, harmony, and the promise of a happily ever after.
Jenny Mann
Executive Director
Dr. Jenny Mann, Executive Director, joined the Alabama Ballet in November of 2024. Before joining AB, she served as President and Executive Director of the Mississippi Symphony Orchestra, Executive Director of Tuscaloosa Symphony, and enjoyed a 15-year career with The University of Alabama as Associate Professor of Bassoon, Chamber Music, and Arts Administration. A passionate educator and administrator, Jenny has over 30 years of experience in teaching and developing education/outreach programs. She specializes in fundraising, organizational capacity building, and collaborative engagement. In addition to her career in leadership, Jenny also published the text, "Teaching Woodwinds: Bassoon" with Mountain Peak Music and three recordings with the renowned Cavell Trio. Jenny holds a BMA from Baylor with a PK-12 Teaching Certification, MM and DMA degrees from The University of Texas at Austin.
Chloe Bowen
PR & Marketing Manager
Michele Swader
Office Manager
Margaret Wendorf
Finance Manager
Natalie Hunt
Director of Operations, Alabama Ballet School
Isabella Cowles, ARAD RTS
Director of Curriculum, Alabama Ballet School
