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"East of the Sun & West of the Moon"

An original choreographic work by Artistic Director Chloe Masson

Once upon a time, in a small, snowy village, there lived a kind and brave girl named Elowen with her parents, Astrid and Eirik. One cold winter night, a great white bear named Bjorn came to their door. He promised that if Elowen would come live with him, her family would be safe and happy. Though frightened, Elowen agreed, hoping to help her parents.

Bjorn carried her to a magnificent castle. By day, she wandered alone through its halls. But every night, someone kind and gentle came to her side. He was Prince Leif, Bjorn’s true form, though his magic kept him hidden. Bjorn warned Elowen never to look at him.

Soon, Elowen missed her family and was allowed to visit home. Her mother, Astrid, urged her to light a candle and see who her mysterious companion really was. That night, she did—and saw Prince Leif! But a drop of hot wax fell on him, breaking the magic in the wrong way.

Prince Leif explained that the spell had been set by the Moon Queen, who ruled the night, and now he must marry the Midnight Princess, living in a distant castle east of the sun and west of the moon. Heartbroken but determined, Elowen vowed to find him.

She traveled across forests, mountains, and winds, guided by three wise and beautiful women: Astra of the Woods, who gave her a Golden Apple, Elinora of the Mountains, who gave her a Golden Carding Comb, and Nyssa of the North Wind, who gave her a Golden Spinning Wheel

Finally, Elowen reached the castle of the Moon Queen and Midnight Princess. Using her magical gifts, she traded them for three nights with Prince Leif. On the first two nights, the Midnight Princess used her magic to keep him asleep. But on the third night, Elowen’s tears of love woke him.

Together, they outsmarted the Moon Queen and Midnight Princess. Only Elowen could complete the impossible task that proved her love was true. The curse was broken, the dark magic faded, and Prince Leif was free.

Elowen and Prince Leif returned home together, greeted by the small Wind Spirits, as well as Star Maidens, and everyone who had helped her along the way. From that day forward, they lived happily ever after, their love bright as the sun and gentle as the moon.