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Turlock ballerina to perform Juliet in Central West production
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Lindsay Weddle, pictured here in the title role of the Central West Ballet production of “Cinderella,” will be performing as Juliet in the company’s production of “Romeo and Juliet” at the Turlock Community Theatre on Oct. 17. - photo by Photo courtesy of Marty Bicek
The first time Lindsay Weddle took the stage it was as a moonbeam fairy in the ballet version of “Twas The Night Before Christmas.” It was a small role for the then 12-year-old budding ballerina, but it left a lasting impression.
“I just knew that was where I belonged,” Weddle said. “I knew I was going to be a ballerina someday.”
That kind of focus and perseverance is unusual in most 12-year-olds, but those qualities, along with a dose of sheer talent, has led the 21-year-old Weddle to where she is now — one of the principle dancers for the Central West Ballet company.
On Oct. 17, Weddle will get the opportunity to show off her talent to a hometown audience, when the Turlock resident takes the stage at the Turlock Community Theatre in the lead role of Juliet in the company’s production of “Romeo and Juliet.”
“I knew immediately Lindsay was the right casting choice for this role,” said René Daveluy, the artistic director for the Central West Ballet. “She is a powerhouse and a very expressive dancer. It’s a role she was made for and will excel in.”
The ballet company is taking the “Romeo and Juliet” production on the road for a special two night engagement at the Turlock Community Theatre on Oct. 16 and 17.
“We wanted to stretch out and reach other communities, so everyone has the chance to see our shows,” Daveluy said. “This will, hopefully, be the first of many little mini tours the company will perform and we hope to make performing shows in Turlock a tradition.”
Weddle especially has been anticipating the Turlock shows.
“I’m really excited for the chance to perform in my town for all my family and friends,” she said. “It turns the tables because most of the cast is from Modesto. Now, it’s my turn to dance in my town.”
Weddle has been dancing with the company since she was 15 years old. Her weekdays are crammed with classes at California State University, Stanislaus, work, and at least five hours of rehearsal and dance classes.
“It is a lot of work and you have to give up a lot,” Weddle said. “Even your family has to make sacrifices. My mom spent a lot of time driving me back and forth from classes and rehearsals. But, right now, I can’t imagine doing anything else but this.”
“The classical disciplines take some serious dedication, even from a young age,” Daveluy said. “If you’re going to be a dancer, you have to say good-bye to a lot of stuff.”
Weddle will be performing as Juliet on Oct. 17. The Oct. 16 show will be performed by Nicole Firpo. Brandon Phelps will perform the role of Romeo both nights. The shows are at 7:30 p.m. Tickets start at $15 and are available at the Turlock Community Theatre box office at 1574 E. Canal Dr. or by calling 668-1169. The Central West Ballet is also holding a pre-performance wine reception from 5:30 p.m. to 6:45 p.m. Oct. 16 at Bistro 234. Tickets for the reception are $20 and benefit the Turlock Community Theatre. They can also be purchased through the Turlock Community Theatre box office.
To contact Sabra Stafford, e-mail sstafford@turlockjournal.com or call 634-9141 ext. 2002.