Choreographed by Erich Yetter and set in 1930’s Akron, Ohio– then toy manufacturing capital of America– “Pinocchio” tells the heartwarming tale of a toy puppet made of wood who, through a series of misadventures, discovers the true meaning of being human and, in the process, becomes a real boy.

Colorful backdrops, sets, costumes, props and music will reflect this rich period of American history while colorful characters like the Fox, Cat, Cricket and Blue Fairy help to add a fantastical magic to the story. Music from artists such as George Gershwin and Benny Goodman will be interspersed with that of traditional composers such as Tchaikovsky, Glazunov and Grieg giving the atmosphere a timeless feel!  This ballet will be a unique, fun and entertaining dance experience for the whole family! Special guest artists include the local musical talents of Youth Excellence Performing Arts Workshop (YEPAW).

Tom Gold will return to Ballet Excel Ohio for the 2015-2016 season to choreograph a special ballet in memory of BXO’s founding director, Nan Klinger.  The ballet is titled “Four Decades of Dance: A Tribute to Nan Klinger,” and is reminiscent of the early years of the former Cuyahoga Valley Youth Ballet.