(RIVER EDGE, NJ) -- Ballet Arts marks its 50th anniversary season this spring with a joyful new production of Coppélia, presented in collaboration with the Adelphi Orchestra. Performances will take place May 2 and 3, 2026, at River Dell High School in Oradell, featuring live orchestral accompaniment, guest artists, and a multigenerational cast of local dancers and students.
Last performed by Ballet Arts in 2017, this fresh staging revives the ballet's playful wit, romantic charm, and timeless theatricality. Coppélia—a sparkling fusion of classical technique and comedic storytelling—remains one of ballet's most beloved works.
"Coppélia is the perfect choice to honor our 50th anniversary," said Jane Silane and Marilyn Westlake Nichols, Artistic Directors of Ballet Arts. "It reflects everything we value—joyful storytelling, rigorous classical technique, and a deep sense of community. Our partnership with the Adelphi Orchestra brings extraordinary energy to this production and to the residents of Bergen County. This revival is a celebration of our dancers, our students, and the community that has supported Ballet Arts for half a century."
A Classic Tale for All Ages
Since its 1870 premiere in Paris, Coppélia has enchanted audiences worldwide with its lively characters and whimsical spirit. The story follows Swanhilda and Franz, young sweethearts whose love is tested by the eccentric Dr. Coppelius and his mysterious mechanical doll. What follows is a delightful mix of mistaken identities, humor, and heartfelt resolution as Swanhilda's quick thinking and courage carry the day.
Set against a colorful European village backdrop, the production features traditional costumes and designs paired with Léo Delibes' buoyant score—performed live by the Adelphi Orchestra under the baton of Valentina Paolucci. An Argentinian-Italian conductor and violinist, Paolucci is a Juilliard-trained artist and Conducting Fellow with The Chelsea Symphony in New York City.
She has led orchestras across Europe, the United States, and Latin America. Her dynamic interpretation of Delibes' score promises music-making as vivid and expressive as the dancing onstage.
Performances take place Saturday, May 2 at 7:00pm and Sunday, May 3 at 2:00pm. Tickets are available for purchase online or by calling (201) 970-7690. River Dell High School is located at 55 Pyle Street in Oradell, New Jersey.
A Production Rich in Character
This season's revival celebrates the ballet's vibrant character dances—the mazurka, czardas, and more—brought to life by a cast spanning three generations. Madeleine Krieger and Margaret Hahn share the role of Swanhilda, joined by guest artists Vince Pelegrin (American Ballet Theatre member) and Jack Silane (freelance dancer who will attend Miami City Ballet School on full scholarship this summer) as Franz.
Krieger and Hahn bring wit and precision to Swanhilda's signature pantomime and the famous "doll" scene—moments that showcase Coppélia's joyful interplay of human emotion and mechanical mimicry. Dr. Fred Fakharzadeh brings nuance and unexpected warmth to the role of Dr. Coppelius, adding emotional depth to the ballet's comic heart.
A Community Collaboration
This Coppélia reflects Ballet Arts' enduring devotion to arts education and local collaboration. Through partnerships with the Adelphi Orchestra and River Dell High School, the production gives students hands-on experience in stagecraft, production, and live performance. Advanced music students will also join professional orchestral musicians in rehearsal and performance — a rare and invaluable experience for young artists.
These performances will mark a milestone for three graduating seniors—Atiya Jackson, Tessa Klein, and Madeleine Krieger—as they take the stage for their final Ballet Arts production before embarking on new journeys.
For five decades, Ballet Arts has provided high-quality dance education and performance opportunities to students across Bergen County, inspiring artistry, discipline, and a lifelong love of the performing arts.
The Adelphi Orchestra is a professional, nonprofit ensemble with more than 70 years of performances throughout New Jersey and New York. Dedicated to musical excellence and community engagement, the orchestra supports young talent and fosters partnerships that bring live classical music to diverse audiences.
