This is a message from outer space to Alec Grant, now perhaps wheeling on his way to Paree to put up La Fille mal Gardée.

Mr. Grant may not yet know of Fanny Fiat, but the rest of us out here, do.

Fanny has romped her way through every let, hindrance and hurdle dreamt up by Marius. The most arduous variations are child's play to her.

But we have no demi-caractère repertory here at Paris, no Bournonville, and therefore, she has never been given to dance a lead.

I feel that Fate has singled her out to dance Lise in La Fille.

Hear our low but persistent wail, Mr. Grant.

Put Fanny Fiat to dance this.

And we shall all have a whale of a time.

I wonder if Mr Grant is allowed to choose casts for himself or whether the Opera chooses for him?

On the plus side there are a number of performances in June and July - 14 I think, which suggests several casts. So perhaps Ms Fiat is in with a chance as the role suits the shorter more compact type of dancer. Ms Osta, Ms Kudo and Ms Pujol would be suited to the role of Lise also.

Any thoughts on who should dance Colas?