LESLEY Ann Eden, principal of the York School of Dance and Drama, is choreographing the Temple Dance for Sunday’s performance of Aida at the Grand Opera House at the invitation of Ellen Kent Amphitheatre Productions and Opera International.

“It’s a great honour to be chosen,” says Lesley Ann.

“I was asked to train ten dancers for the special routine and it was hard to choose, but all the girls were pleased and enthusiastic for those selected, as it’s such a great opportunity for the whole school, which rarely comes along.”

The students will join up with Ellen Kent’s professional company of 120 singers and 43 musicians, and no one is more excited than Tia Hancy, who has been selected as the dance soloist.

“I never dreamt that I would be given such an amazing chance to perform with wonderful professionals at my age,” she says.

Lesley Ann looks forward to Tia’s big moment. “As the main temple dancer, Tia has to present the sword to the principal male singer and she is both nervous and excited about this aspect of the routine,” she says.

The York girls will be wearing the opera company’s costumes and will have the chance to try them out only a few hours before Sunday’s 7.30pm performance.

“So it’s a bit nerve-wracking, as I’m also concerned about the props the girls will have to carry and the space allotted for their special temple scene,” says Lesley Ann. “I’m hoping it will all work out.”

The girls have had only a few weeks to learn the dance. “They’ve worked hard, taking extra lessons. I’m sure it will go very well and I’m really grateful and excited to be part of such a wonderful performance and to be able to give my girls a dream experience,” says Lesley Ann.

Verdi’s Aida, a tragic story of love and war, jealousy and revenge, will be staged on an amphitheatre set designed by London designer Will Bowen in Ellen Kent’s farewell touring production at the York theatre. •Tickets cost £24.50 to £37 on 0844 847 2322.