WEST Dorset’s newest ballet company is going from strength to strength.

Dorchester Ballet Theatre formed in August 2011 as part of South Coast Ballet, the popular youth ballet company which has been operating in Dorset for almost four years.

The company takes dancers from the age of 10 upwards who study ballet on a regular basis, from any method of training and is currently rehearsing for its next full-length production of Cinderella, which will be staged at Bournemouth Pavilion in June and Lighthouse in July.

It recently presented A Gala Programme of Ballet at Weymouth Pavilion and potential new members are invited to join in one of its Monday evening rehearsals held at Dorchester Arts Centre between 6.30pm and 8.30pm.

Artistic director Caron Yardley said: “The group has a threefold aim.

“We offer local young dance students essential training in performing skills through participation in regular seasons of live ballet, allow audiences to see authentic productions at affordable prices and stage a wide range of well-known ballets from the traditional repertoire that are usually toured to the regions.

“The group has also created three entirely original full-length ballets – introducing audiences as well as dancers to new and exciting concepts in ballet productions. We have a varied ‘set’ performance program throughout the whole year, as opposed to one main production and we have provided dozens of young dancers across Dorset with an incredible opportunity to learn and develop vital stage skills through regular consecutive appearances.”

Caron said that while the current economic climate does little to help artistic groups, Dorchester Ballet Theatre is going through the processes of setting up as a Community Interest Company.

While this takes place it will continue to support, encourage, and provide opportunities for young dancers and local young people to develop their future through involvement in dance and performance, and hopes it can improve the patronage of audiences to ensure it can continue to provide what it describes as ‘a valuable contribution’ to the local arts community.

Caron is also interested to hear from anyone who would like to be involved with, or contribute to, the future of the group. Enquiries can be directed to the artistic director by calling 01305 839927.