"Thumbelina" 2025

About the show:

Audiences of all ages will delight in Thumbelina, an original story ballet from Avant Vermont Dance, to be presented at the Norwich Green in Norwich, VT, Saturday, July 12th at 11am as part of The Junction Dance Festival.

A narrated score, spectacular set, and whimsical choreography combine to showcase Hans Christian Andersen’s adventurous tale of a tiny girl who meets a menagerie of animal characters on her way a magical fairyland. Following the 30-minute ensemble performance, children are invited to enter the world of Thumbelina through an interactive experience with the dancers, set, and props.

A team of Vermont artists and dancers anchor the production, with choreography by Ashley Hensel-Browning, music from Evan Premo of Scrag Mountain Music, and sets and props by Mark Yuengling, Evie Lovett, and Elizabeth Billings. Sadie MacKinnon as Thumbelina is joined by featured dancers Shannon Aubin, Sarah Cano-Dugat, Niavh Gibney, Rachel Hebert, Keigan Illingworth, Nyna Lewallen, Suzanne Stern, Angelae Wunderle, and Kamron Yuengling.

Attendees are invited to bring blankets or low-profile chairs to this outdoor event. In case of adverse weather, Thumbelina will move to Sunday, July 13th at 6pm, which will be announced at www.facebook.com/avantvt.

Admission to Thumbelina is offered by optional donation through generous sponsorship from Co-op Food Stores, Mascoma Bank, The Dance Factory, and numerous private donors, all of whom are helping support Avant Vermont Dance’s mission of making performance accessible to all.