A talented local youngster will take to the stage at Manchester Opera House this weekend in a performance with the English Youth Ballet (EYB). 

Nine-year-old Pippa, from Ponyton, will perform alongside professional dancers in a production of Cinderella in Hollywood on Friday 8 and Saturday 9 March. 

Pippa is one of only 100 dancers aged 8-18 who have been given the opportunity to perform with EYB, out of well over 1,500 auditions. 

"Pippa has made a superb achievement", an EYB spokesperson said. "She was selected in a hugely competitive audition."

EYB was founded in 1998, and aims to provide "professional performance experience for talented young dancers".

Last year alone, over 12,000 people watched EYB performances in seven different towns and cities. What's more, hugely prestigious ballet companies - including the Royal Ballet - feature former EYB members. 

Pippa will perform alongside EYB principal Lindsey Fraser, who will star as Cinderella (Images via EYB)

The young stars are currently experiencing life as professional dancers - not just through the prestigious performances, but through extensive rehearsals and training. Pippa herself described being hugely excited to perform. 

Speaking to EYB, she said: "I started ballet last January. I wanted to do it because I thought it would be fun! Dancing makes me feel really positive about myself and it's really exciting!

"I'm looking forward to learning new dances with the EYB and getting to go on a big stage like the opera house.

"I can't wait to go on pointe when I'm older!"

Tickets are still available HERE for the two dates. There will be three showings: 

• Friday 8 March 7.30pm
• Saturday 9 March - 2.30pm
• Saturday 9 March - 7.30pm

(Manchester Opera House image by Mike Peel, licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 4.0)

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