Choreography and Story

By

Caroline Meinert

Artistic Director of Ballet Arts, Inc. of Jackson, TN ​

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The setting is 1890 in a small village nestled in rural Tennessee. At the break of dawn, a charming house stands on the hillside. Agatha, a mother and widow, steps out of the house carrying a basket. Engaging in her daily routine, she leisurely hangs her laundry on a clothesline while contemplating her life and the surrounding land.

Suddenly, a whirlwind of energy rushes out of the door – her daughter Sybil. Sybil, a young and lively maiden, embraces the morning eagerly. Agatha gazes at Sybil with a warm smile, recognizing Sybil as the cornerstone of her life. Despite enduring significant losses, Sybil has consistently provided Agatha with stability and support.

Sybil makes her descent to the local village. She warmly greets her companions along the way. The girls dance and play in the warm afternoon sunlight, their joyful time abruptly interrupted by the arrival of a charming young man named Walter. Walter, a spirited farmhand, captures the attention of all the young girls in the town, yet his gaze is fixed only on Sybil. Their first encounter leaves Sybil unsure about Walter, while he remains resolute in his desire to get to know her.

Sybil and Walter engage in conversation, getting to know each other and developing a mutual fondness. Agatha observes the interaction between her daughter and Walter, feeling concerned for Sybil's well-being and not wanting to see her daughter get hurt. Agatha desires her daughter's happiness but also grieves the changes as Sybil transitions into adulthood. Agatha fears she will lose her daughter forever.

Walter asks Agatha for permission to marry Sybil, but Agatha initially refuses. With support from his sisters, Walter demonstrates his suitability to marry Sybil. Eventually, Agatha changes her mind and gives her approval to Walter.

The wedding day is filled with joy and excitement for everyone. Walter and Sybil dance and rejoice with their dear ones, marking a momentous occasion as they embrace the promise of a new journey on the horizon.

Five years later, Agatha leaves the house and starts her usual daily routine. Sybil and Walter approach the house, their love deepened over the years. A joyful child runs out to greet her parents. Reflecting on the positive changes in her life, Agatha embraces her grandchild, feeling grateful for this life.