A timeless holiday classic returns to theaters as the Christmas season is upon us. “The Nutcracker” Ballet, with music from Tchaikovsky, continues to delight audiences of all ages.
“The Nutcracker” tells the story of a young girl named Clara who receives a magical nutcracker as a gift from her uncle, Drosselmeyer, on Christmas Eve.
The nutcracker adds a bit of enchantment as it comes to life, defeats the Mouse King in a fierce battle, and takes Clara on a journey through the Land Of the Sweets.
The ballet is based on the story “The Nutcracker and the Mouse King” written by E.T.A. Hoffmann.
Many people associate “The Nutcracker” with the holiday season, as many companies perform it during this time of year. And there are multiple opportunities to see it performed in South Florida this holiday season as performed by different dance companies, such as Miami City Ballet or the Arts Ballet Theatre in South Florida.
“I look forward to watching ‘The Nutcracker’ with my mom every year as part of our holiday tradition,” said Isabella Zayas, a student at the University of Miami.
The iconic musical composition, including “”Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy” and the “Waltz of the Flowers,” transports the audience on a journey of imagination.
“I can recognize that beautiful score anywhere,” said Olivia Fertig, another show attendee. It brings me so much joy.”
Armour Dance Theatre and New World School of the Arts partnered to deliver a performance, showcasing talent with its diverse cast. A conglomerate of students and internationally known guest stars make up this distinguished cast.
Not only can adults appreciate the graceful movements and agility of the performers on stage, but young audiences can also relate to the storyline by identifying with a cast of their age.
For over 43 years, this production of the Nutcracker has been the longest-standing rendition of this beloved story, held at the Miami-Dade County Auditorium.
“I’ve been bringing my students to this ballet in an attempt to expose them to a cultural experience and I can see how much they enjoy it every time, said Eileen Caldera, teacher at Dante B. Fascell Elementary school. “For a lot of our Title 1 students, this is often the only opportunity they get to watch something like this.”
While ballet performances can range in price, especially in a metropolitan city like Miami, economically disadvantaged students are given the opportunity to experience arts and culture through resources provided in schools.
