LORCIA Cooper, one of South Africa's top choreographers, yesterday began putting 40 dancers through their paces in preparation for the World Cup in June.

LORCIA Cooper, one of South Africa's top choreographers, yesterday began putting 40 dancers through their paces in preparation for the World Cup in June.

The actress unveiled the 2010 World Cup dancers who will enchant fans during breaks at matches in Gauteng.

The excitement was palpable at the Coreenergy Dance Studios in Craighall, Johannesburg, when the dancers were given their first dance lessons.

The 40 dancers were selected in auditions held in Gauteng two months ago.

McDonald's South Africa managing director Greg Solomon was in attendance. McDonald's is one of the sponsors of the World Cup.

Cooper said: "The excitement among the dancers is great. They regard this as an opportunity of a lifetime.

"They will have the chance to display their choreographic skills during breaks World Cup games that will be played at the Soccer City, Ellis Park and Loftus stadiums.

"Personally, this is a big step for me because the project is quite huge. I am feeling the pressure but I am confident I will do well with this one."

Solomon said McDonald's expected this to be a World Cup investment legacy as the young dancers, all female, will cherish the experience long after the soccer spectacle.

Cooper said besides learning how to dance the young women would also learn life skills.