OREM — The Utah Regional Ballet, based at Utah Valley State College in Orem, will present the award-winning ballet, "Legend of Timpanogos" in Salt Lake City.
The ballet was conceived and written by artistic director Jacqueline Colledge and tells the love story of Timpanac and Ucanogos, a young American Indian couple who fall in love despite the disapproval of the maiden's tribe.
Together they face persecution, emotional and physical challenges and ultimately death. The legend of the young couple is one that has been told for hundreds of years, and is the myth and lore behind one of Utah's highest peaks, Mount Timpanogos. Colledge researched the various versions of the tale for 10 years before finishing the work.
The ballet incorporates many American Indian customs and features an original score by Michael Babbit.
Since its premiere in 1994, "Legend of Timpanogos" has become the signature work for the ballet company and is considered a favorite among community members.
"It has been rewarding over the years to see the reception of this ballet," Colledge said. "We get as many inquiries about it as we do 'The Nutcracker.' "
Over the past 15 years, the Utah Regional Ballet dancers have performed "Timpanogos" all over the country and the world including Dance America Festivals, the International Ballet Competition and China.
"It has been so gratifying to see the ballet so well received wherever we go," Colledge said.
A special performance of "Legend of Timpanogos" will be presented March 2, 10 a.m., for schoolchildren in the local area at a discounted rate ($3 per child).
For more information, contact the company at 796-7323.
If you go . . .
What: "Legend of Timpanogos"
Where: Jeanne Wagner Theatre, 138 W. 300 South, Salt Lake City
When: 7:30 p.m., March 2, 3
Cost: $18/$16 students
Phone: 355-ARTS
Web: www.arttix.org