Montana Ballet Company stages Snow White

“A beautiful legacy” says lead dancer of Winthrop Corey’s choreography

On Stage

Back by popular demand, Montana Ballet Company (MBC) announces the return of Winthrop Corey’s original Snow White on Saturday, Feb. 19, and Sunday, Feb. 20, at the Willson Auditorium in Bozeman.

Snow White "playful, she’s sweet, she’s resilient and makes the best of her situations – most of them fairly sticky thanks to the queen!" says lead dancer Frances Cole.
Snow White is “playful, sweet, resilient and makes the best of her situations – most of them fairly sticky thanks to the queen!” says lead dancer Frances Cole.Photo © Raven’s Eye Productions

Corey, a world-renowned master choreographer and teacher and former principal dancer with the Royal Winnipeg Ballet and National Ballet of Canada, choreographed this version of Snow White in 2016. The production premiered at the Mobile Ballet to critical acclaim, and has since been performed by numerous ballet companies across the country, including its Montana Ballet debut in 2017.

This enchanting treat for the entire family features Corey’s exquisite choreography and fine, hand-crafted costumes.

“This ballet has a beautiful legacy,” says Frances Cole, who dances the title role. “Mr. Corey’s choreography has been so much fun to learn. It’s challenging dancing, but it’s also very emotional.”

The production has also afforded her the opportunity to get to know the protagonist. “She’s playful, she’s sweet, she’s resilient and makes the best of her situations – most of them fairly sticky thanks to the queen! But she also has dreams and longings.”

“The choreography beautifully captures her spirit, and I’m so excited for audiences to experience it,” she adds.

Cole began training with Montana Ballet Company as a child in 2010. Audiences will recognize her as the featured dancer in the company’s REIMAGINES 2020 film, as well as the lead dancer in MBC’s Nutcracker Arabian divertissement.

“Preparing to dance the lead role in Snow White is a lot of different things – thrilling, humbling, terrifying and exciting all in one! But ultimately, it’s a huge honor and privilege to be a part of this work,” says Cole.

Additional highlights of the 2022 performance include MBC Music Director Stefan Stern conducting a live orchestra of local musicians.

For Snow White tickets contact the Montana Ballet Company at 406-582-8702 or online. Tickets range from $20-$65 and all seating is reserved.