THE only state school in the country thought to have tackled a full-length ballet makes its professional debut at The Dukes.

A talented team from Kirkby Lonsdale’s Queen Elizabeth School stage a unique version of Alice Through The Looking Glass at the Lancaster theatre on Saturday, January 11.

The two-hour performance, which features 35 dancers, including 18-year-old Kate Threlfall as Alice, and a 12-piece orchestra, has been directed by QES teacher Jasper Marriott, a former member of the acclaimed Lancaster-based Ludus Dance touring company.

“I directed our (QES) first full length contemporary ballet in 2011 which was a version of Nutcracker,” explained Jasper. “I loved the process so I knew I wanted to keep making large scale ballets.”

The highly innovative project is another fine example of the school’s ambition and commitment to the performing arts and was created from scratch with completely original content, including the score which was composed by QES head of music Jen Hartley.

The ballet took eight months to produce while ensuring a minimal impact on teaching and learning at the school.

“For 'Alice' I wanted the whole project to be original in terms of story, choreography and music,” continued Jasper.

“We staged the ballet at QES for six performances in December, which is typical of a major school production, but due to the uniqueness of the project and the amazing response to our previous full length dance show, I wanted to bring this production to a larger audience, not just the those with links to the school.

“I feel the work is strong enough for a regular mainstream audience. The Dukes seemed the ideal venue to stage this production and offers a hugely exciting opportunity for our dancers.”

Performances start at 2pm and 7.30pm.

Box office 01524-598500.