Suddenly, it’s December, the thermometer is hovering around zero, and we’ve had our first dusting of snow. Yep, the holidays are approaching. It’s time for carols and decorations and Christmas lights brightening up our long dark nights.
And, of course, that means it’s also time for the return of another tradition. On December 12, Ballet BC ushers in the holidays with The Nutcracker: the dream ballet beautifully brought to life by Canada’s Royal Winnipeg Ballet. The iconic troupe is celebrating its 75th Anniversary this year. And it will be the first time in my 60 years that I’ll finally see this most classic and much-loved ballet!
“We are thrilled to present the Royal Winnipeg Ballet, one of Canada’s leading ballet companies, in this iconic Canadian version of the delightful Christmas story Nutcracker,” says Ballet BC’s Artistic Director Emily Molnar. “Casting over 70 talented, aspiring young dancers from close to 20 dance schools across the Lower Mainland, this also gives us a chance to support the local dance community. This marks the first opportunity for these young dancers to perform with a professional ballet company. We are excited to provide this experience to so many young artists.”
Follow the fearless female heroine, Clara, as her Christmas dream becomes our magical reality. Danced to Tchaikovsky’s glorious music, Clara’s turn-of-the-century stately mansion becomes a whirlwind fantasy of live toy soldiers, dancing mice and a mischievous bear who steals the Christmas pudding. The beloved Nutcracker bear Filbert will also get new friends with the addition of an adult polar bear and 12 polar bear cubs. In addition, audiences can expect a snowy pond hockey game and a battle on Parliament Hill to create even more ruckus on stage.
Nutcracker plays the Queen Elizabeth Theatre December 12 – 14, 2014 (7:30 pm performances December 12 – 14 and 2:00 pm performances December 13 and 14). Tickets can be purchased online at ticketmaster.ca.
I can’t wait! Hope to see you there.
Photo Credit: Vince Pahkala
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