By Janet Cruz

Step into the world of Alice and Wonderland with more than 40 dancers when Ballet Havasu and Beyond Dance takes the stage Saturday, at the Lake Havasu High School Performing Arts Center.

“This production features local dancers ranging in ages from 3 years old to adult. We’re also excited to be collaborating with guest dancers from Beyond Dance,” said Ballet Havasu Director, Melanie Preston.” “Choreography for the production has truly been a team effort and all of our staff has contributed original choreography for the show.”

Choregraphers include Marcus Bugler, Stephanie Schmidt, Melanie Preston, Cassandra Betancourt and Sarah Aitken, along with Ashleigh Ferris as a guest choreographer for Alice’s “Pool of Tea.”

Ballet Havasu Dancers Emma Preston and Dakota Geary practice alongside choregrapher Marcus Bugler. Photo Courtesy Ballet Havasu

Dancers with the organization have  been preparing weekly since January with some students committing to more than eight hours per week between classes and rehearsals.

“The full cast began large-scale run-throughs in April, and our dedicated students have shown incredible commitment — balancing school, extracurriculars, and dance to bring this magical story together,” Preston said.

In order to bring the show to life, amazing dancers are adorned with brightly colored costumes carefully crafted by Kim Krick, who sits on the Ballet Havasu Board, along with seamstress and Lake Havasu Resident Katie Kemp.

“Our costumes have been a true effort of labor and love, with countless hours to bring Wonderland to life on stage,” Preston said.

Amelia Preston as the White Rabbit.  Photo Courtesy Melanie Preston

The performances will take place at the Lake Havasu Performing Arts Center: Saturday, at 4 p.m., with another show on Sunday, at 2 p.m.

Tickets range from $10 to $20, and can be purchased online at www.ballethavasu.org/performances or at the box office the day of the show.

“We’d love to see the community come out and support the arts — it’s going to be a whimsical journey through Wonderland,” said Preston.

Emma Crawford, a performer in the upcoming production of Alice in Wonderland in her role as “Frog.” Photo Courtesy Melanie Preston