Ann Freeman Dance Academy to perform end-of-year recitals May 31

Ann Freeman Dance Academy has announced two end-of-year recitals at the J.E. Broyhill Civic Center on Sunday, May 31, that will be performed by academy students, staff and guests.

Younger students, from preschool to second grade, will perform in the first recital, "The Magic Garden," followed by "Let Your Inner Glow Shine," and will also feature performances from the AFDA Performing Company, and St. Joseph's Irish Dance School. This recital will begin at 3 p.m., according to a news release.

The second recital, "La Boutique Fantasque," is a whimsical comic ballet about a magical toy shop where dolls come to life after hours. Set in France, the story follows a toymaker whose dancing dolls are purchased by different families, only for the toys to escape rather than be separated from one another. Filled with humor, lively characters, and imaginative choreography, the ballet is known for its charming storyline and colorful music adapted from works by Gioachino Rossini. The academy's older students, ages 10 through the adult classes, and AFDA staff will perform. The ballet will be followed by "Let Your Inner Glow Shine," and performances by the academy's Performance Company. The recital begins at 7 p.m.

Tickets are $10 per person and can be purchased online for either the younger and older performances, by calling the studio at 828-324-6058, or at the door.

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This story was originally published May 25, 2026 at 5:54 AM.