Enter an enchanting world of animals-come-to-life when the New Jersey Civic Youth Ballet presents a double feature of ballets on Sunday, June 2: Peter and the Wolf and Carnival of the Animals.

The double-header starts at 4 p.m. on the Sitnik Stage in Centenary Stage Company’s Lackland Performing Arts Center in Hackettstown.

Peter and the Wolf is a timeless classic that delights both children and adults alike. It is a story of unexpected friendships, teamwork, and bravery. This ballet serves as a great introduction for children to learn the instruments of the orchestra because each character is represented by a different instrument. The dance, narration, and musical themes help to guide the story, which has captured the hearts of audiences all over the world.

Peter and the Wolf features all new choreography this year by the new Co-Artistic Directors Alexandra Thorpe and Ashley Feyrer. The part of Peter is played by Lily Papendick (12) of Stanhope. The part of the Wolf is played by Violet McMeen (13) of Long Valley. It is the first time for both of them in these roles.

Carnival of the Animals is a charming ballet that tells the story of a young girl who falls asleep and dreams her favorite stuffed animal, a lion, has come to life! The Lion leads the young girl to his magical kingdom, where all of his animal friends live. The young girl loves to dance and is delighted when all the magical animals dance for her. There are spirited chickens pecking about, beautiful fish swimming around, adorable turtles peeking out of their shells, a kangaroo that energetically bounces to and fro, and silly penguins that slip and slide all over. The young girl wakes up realizing that just because it was a dream, doesn’t mean it wasn’t real. We are reminded that you should always believe in your dreams. The entire ballet is a gem that leaves the audience feeling enchanted and inspired.

It has been six years since NJCYB has last danced Carnival of the Animals. They are excited to bring it back into the repertoire. Choreography is by Elisabeth Holowchuk Sollog. The part of the lion is played by Anne Mohan (17) of Newton. And the part of the Little Girl is played by Kristina Gallagher (8) of Hackettstown.

The cast is comprised entirely of students from the Warren, Morris, and Hunterdon Counties, ranging in ages from 6-17. Both ballets feature narration, making the performances accessible to children.

Tickets range from $22-25 for adults and $15 for children under 12. For more information or to purchase tickets visit centenarystageco.org or call the box office, which is open Monday through Friday from 1–5 p.m. and two hours prior to every scheduled performance, at 908-979-0900. The box office is located in the Lackland Performing Arts Center at 715 Grand Ave. Hackettstown, N.J., on the campus of Centenary University.