TEN year of ballet training have paid off for Ella Rundle with a place in the cast of Swan Lake at the Hall for Cornwall.
Ella, 13 and in Year 9 at Fowey Community College, will be performing in the Duchy Ballet production from March 22.
She has been taking ballet lessons since the age of 3, and said: "I used to do little shows in Charlestown and Fowey.
"Now I attend Capitol School of Dance, which is held at Poltair School."
The auditions featured guest principals Phillip Velinov and Natalia Ashikhmina from Louisville Ballet, who will star in the production, and Ella secured a place in the mazurka scene, a Polish dance.
She is now three weeks into a gruelling rehearsal schedule that involves both weekday and weekend sessions.
Despite an obvious flair for dance, Ella's dreams lie elsewhere; she hopes to become a veterinary nurse.
"I know it has nothing to do with dance, but I do really enjoy ballet and it keeps me fit," she said.
Lucinda Dennes, who teaches PE and dance at Fowey Community College, said: "She's a naturally talented dancer and to have a part in this performance is a reward for her dedication.
"Her poise and fluid movements in ballet are extremely graceful. Furthermore, the moment any music begins she can choreograph dynamic, well-structured and perfectly-executed moves."
