Gala Will Help Bring Moscow Ballet to Murrieta

An evening of dance is scheduled to help raise funds for bringing a professional Russian ballerina to Murrieta this summer to train young classical ballerinas.

"The Enchanted Garden Gala" will feature local dancer Mistilyn Van Bebber, who is attending Princeton Ballet Summer Intensive this summer. Other entertainment will include a vignette ballet of "The Blue Fairy in Geppeto's Workshop," performed by Mistilyn and Murrieta Dance Studio students.

John Kelly, an Improv instructor whose recent credits include Arts of Broadway as Edna in "Hairspray," will be the master of ceremonies. Vocals will be performed by Alexandria Ray and McKay Magnum, and there will be a performance by Alias Movement.

The event, which falls on Mother's Day weekend, is set for 5:30 p.m. May 7 at Murrieta Community Center, 41810 Juniper Street. Tickets are $12 pre-sale or $15 at the door.

Funds raised will support advanced training for local ballet dancers, said Denise Walker of Inland Valley Conservatory, a nonprofit organization bringing affordable, professional quality training of the performing arts and sports to the Temecula and Murrieta Valley.

The Moscow Ballet Summer Intensive program offers young American dancers, who otherwise have limited access to the classical Russian style, a unique opportunity to work closely with a professional Russian ballerina, soloist Svetlana Todinova. The summer program will take place at Murrieta Mesa High School.

Purchase tickets for "The Enchanted Garden Gala" online or at the Murrieta Dance Studio in the Ralph's shopping center at 23811 Washington Ave. Suite C-109. Call 951-696-9800 with any questions.