Preview: Ballet Victoria and Avant Dance Co. present 'The Gift'

Avant Dance Co. and Ballet Victoria have come together to present a creative take on The Nutcracker with their production of The Gift on December 16 at the Michael J. Fox Theatre in Burnaby.

The re-invented version of the Nutcracker tells the story of Pandora as she defies her Uncle’s warning not to open a box that he has brought with him on his holiday visit. By opening the box, a collection of whimsical and magical creatures that wreck havoc on their house, including Minions, Peter Pan and more. Pandora and her Uncle must enlist the help of Queen Elsa and Jack Frost to fix the mess before it’s too late!

Photo Credit: Ballet Victoria and Avant Dance Co.

Avant Dance Co. is a local small business and was chosen by Ballet Victoria to co-present this magical show. As Ballet Victoria is a professional company, this is quite the special opportunity for this local dance studio. Not only is this a great chance for the younger dancers to dance along seasoned professionals, it also provides a unique mentorship situation for the younger dancers to see that their hobby could one day turn into a career. This modern take on the classic Nutcracker is sure to keep audiences entertained with the new storyline while keeping the heart of the plot of the beloved holiday ballet piece.

As the show is hosted at the Michael J. Fox Theatre in Burnaby, greater Vancouver families won’t have to travel all the way downtown to witness this re-invented festive spectacle. The quality of dance and professionalism in The Gift is astounding and original but thankfully, lower mainland families will be able to see it without the hassle of braving downtown traffic or breaking the bank, an important consideration during the holiday season, making ballet accessible to families on a tight budget. You also support a small local business, Avant Dance Co., with the purchase of each ticket.

The Gift features Ballet Victoria as well as dancers from Avant Dance Co. and features choreography by Paul DeStrooper (Artistic Director, Ballet Victoria) and an original piece by Jocelyn Wozencroft (Artistic Director, Avant Dance Co.).

Photo Credit: Ballet Victoria and Avant Dance Co.

This one night only event presented by Ballet Victoria and Avant Dance Co. is sure to be a treat for the whole family. Combining beautiful choreography, a re-vamping of a holiday dance classic and just a little bit of magic, The Gift is truly the show to see to get you and your family in the Christmas mood.

The Gift plays at the Michael J. Fox Theatre (7373 Macpherson Ave, Burnaby) on December 16 at 7 P.M. Tickets are $30 for adults, $25 for students/seniors and $15 for those twelve and under. You can buy tickets through the Avant Dance Co. Box Office by calling 604-559-5708 or e-mailing [email protected]. You can also find tickets online.