Butler Ballet commissioned Ellen Denham to write the libretto for the full-length story-ballet. The action begins with Aldric, a mortal hero, seeking to avenge the destruction of his village. He enters a cruel land ruled by hostile creatures. Only the great eagle of the World Tree can help him find refuge. In the enchanted forest of Gwinwidon he falls in love with Salisa, a willow-dryad. Ultimately, the two will be called upon "to make the ultimate sacrifice to ensure the world of the tree folk will not fall prey to evil," according to Cynthia Sequin, Butler Ballet spokesperson.

Butler Music Department member Frank Felice has composed the "neo-romantic score." A trio of Butler choreographers are setting the four-act work - Stephan Laurent, Cynthia Pratt and Norman Walker. Karl Kaufman is designing scenery, costumes are by Susan Owens and the Butler Symphony Orchestra plays under the batons of Maestros Kelly Corcoran and Alfred Savia. Seventy-three Butler Ballet dancers appear onstage. Three seniors and three juniors are premiering the lead roles, including Christie Galotta, Alexis Raitt, Paige Arden, Jinnya Campbell, David Ingram and Matthew Sparks. Norman Walker appears as Balor, the malfeasant sorcerer.

Performances are at 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday, 2 p.m. Sunday. Visit butler.edu/dance/willowmaiden.html to learn more about The Willow Maiden, including excerpts from Felice's score. Tickets, $15-$20, at Clowes box office, Ticketmaster or call 293-1000.