COLUMBUS, Ohio — The talented dancers of Columbus’ BalletMet are ready to lace up their slippers and bring new life to a classic tale. The company’s production of Cinderella opens April 8 at the Ohio Theatre.

Before dancers take the stage, they perfect each move in the studio, finalizing every detail right down to the stitch.

“Cinderella’s ballgown is probably one of my favorite costumes in the show,” said costume shop manager Caitlin Headley. “All of the trim had to be hand sewn, and we added multiple layers of fabric to the skirt.”

Headley has worked in the BalletMet costume shop for eight seasons. She said while dance tells the story, the costumes bring it to life.

“It’s just another element to help propel the story along,” said Headley. “For example, with the step sister's ballgown, we chose a big, goofy, extravagant look like the character should be.”

Company dancers spent five weeks rehearsing for the show.

“It blends great dancing, humor, and really does invite our community back to the theatre,” said artistic director Edward Liang.

Liang has choreographed Cinderella in the past and describes the show at the company’s biggest next to The Nutcracker.

“You have really lush sets and costumes that create this whole world,” said Liang. “What I want is for people to be transported. I know how much we need arts and humanity to bring back our humanity.”

BalletMet’s Cinderella runs April 8-10 at Ohio Theatre.