Juneau Dance Theatre to present classical comic ballet 'Coppelia' this weekend

Swanilda and friends at a dress rehearsal on Sunday, May 3, 2026. (Courtesy of Juneau Dance Theatre)

Bridget Lujan

Juneau Dance Theatre Executive Director

Juneau Dance Theatre will present "a classical comic ballet full of misunderstandings, playful chaos and theatrical charm" this weekend at the Juneau-Douglas High School: Yadaa.at Kalé auditorium.

Young romantics, Swanilda and Franz are among villagers celebrating the upcoming installation of a new clock in the town square. Joyful and high energy folk and ballet dances bring the whole town together.

Soon after, Swanilda catches Franz flirting with a beautiful girl, Coppelia, who appears in balcony of Dr. Coppelius' workshop, near the square. Jealousy gets the best of her, so Swanilda and her friends sneak into the workshop, intending to confront the mystery girl; however, they discover that Coppelia is a life-size doll. Swanilda and friends have a good laugh at Franz's expense.

Dr. Coppelius returns to the workshop, and comedy, mischief and mayhem ensue. Swanilda tricks Dr. Coppelius into believing his magic brought Coppelia to life, but it's really Swanilda, who switched dresses, posing as Coppelia.

Franz his own hilarious encounter with Dr. Coppelius in the workshop, which is filled with many mechanical, life-sized dancing dolls, each set into motion throughout the scene. All is resolved in act three, when Swanilda and Franz recommit their love for each other and marry. The whole town is there to celebrate, with a beautiful waltz and several elegant performances.

Tickets are available at juneaudance.org. Performances are Friday at 7 p.m., Saturday at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m., and Sunday at 2 p.m. at JDHS.

Dancers rehearse the waltz of the hours on Sunday, May 3, 2026. (Courtesy of Juneau Dance Theatre)

Dolls in the workshop during a dress rehearsal on Sunday, May 3, 2026. (Courtesy of Juneau Dance Theatre)