Silent Magic: Gulf Coast Ballet's Cinderella

0:00At the Gulf Coast Ballet Theater in Largo, Florida, 50 students and teachers are deep into rehearsals for their big Cinderella production. 17-year-old high school senior Peyton Glachowski is wrapping up her dance career with the show, dreaming of landing the lead role. She loves how the stage clears her mind, letting her just flow with the moves. Meanwhile, 20-year-old Mackenzie Denning is stepping into one of the wicked step sisters, channeling jealousy through huge facial expressions and bold gestures. Both dancers are hyped for the weekly Saturday sessions, with Peyton trying partner work for the first time. No words in the story means everything rides on dance steps and over the top acting. The dancers say the silence amps up the challenge, forcing them to exaggerate every emotion so folks in the back row get it. Peyton admits it feels silly and rehearsal, but perfect on stage. Mackenzie digs switching from her usual self to a naughty, funny villain. Artistic director Anne Corolo has watched many of these kids grow over 15 years, from basic steps to full artists.

1:03Seeing her graduating senior shine as adults is her proudest thrill yet. Catch the show at the palladium theater in St. Pete on Saturday, April 11th, with a sensory friendly mini-version at 11 a.m. plus full. Performances at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. Pure magic without a single spoken line. That's your update from Tampa Bay News today, powered by AI.