Twyla Tharp's The Princess & the Goblin opens this Friday, April 15! Click here to read 4dancers.org's interview with Alessa Rogers, who will perform the lead role of Princess Irene, and John Welker, who will dance the role of King Papa.

*Alessa Rogers will perform the role of Princess Irene April 15 at 8pm and April 16 at 8pm. John Welker will perform the role of King Papa at all shows. Casting subject to change.

"No stranger to the role, Rogers performed as Princess Irene in Atlanta Ballet’s 2012 production. Originally cast as the understudy, she was put into the part right before a studio performance. 'That was my first lead role ever and I will always have a soft spot for it,' says Rogers.... I will always be grateful for the experience and for Twyla for believing I could be a princess.'" - Rachel Hellwig, 4dancers.org

A Peek Behind-the-Scenes

James Weis tests out makeup and hair on Nadia Mara for her role as Great-Great-Grandmother Irene in Twyla Tharp's The Princess & the Goblin. (Photos by Brian Wallenberg.)

James Weis works on Ashley Wegmann's wig for her role as Great-Great-Grandmother Irene (left). King Papa's friends wear some fantastic hats at his party that opens the ballet (right). (Photos courtesy of James Weis.)

James Weis is putting the finishing touches on the ladies' hair pieces. (Photo courtesy of James Weis.)

Top image: Lisa Barrieau, Peng-Yu Chen, Yoomi Kim, Alessa Rogers, and Rachel Van Buskirk. Photo by Kim Kenney.