RIVER EDGE, N.J.—Ballet Arts presents a beautiful production of everyone’s holiday favorite, “The Nutcracker.” The ballet is a classic holiday experience for children and adults, a wonderful interpretation brought to life by skillful dancers.
Ballet Arts has been producing high quality classical ballet in Bergen County for decades.
The first performance of “The Nutcracker,” in 1892 in St. Petersburg, Russia, was not received well. But along the way it became a holiday tradition. Celebrating its 75th anniversary, its first complete performance in the United States took stage in San Francisco in December 1944.
In Act 1, the Nutcracker (Jack Silane) and Mouse Queen (Julia Principato) battle with their legions of soldiers and mice after all the guests have left the Stalbaum’s Christmas party. Clara and Franz travel to a magical kingdom filled with delicious treats, dancing flowers and Mother Gigogne (Philip DeRosa), who has undergone a makeover this past year.
In this delightful production, the Sugar Plum Fairy is performed Saturday evening by Kayla Schwarz of the Township of Washington and Ava Hyde of Oradell on Sunday.
They are partnered by Damien Alexander Snow, who turns with perfection in the role of the Cavalier. Damien is on full scholarship at the American Ballet Theatre’s Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis School. Prior to ABT’s pre-professional program, Damien attended the School of American Ballet and was selected to perform the role of soldier in the full season of “The Nutcracker” with the New York City Ballet.
Ballet Arts’ production is delightfully charming and enchanting for the entire family. Ballet Arts School in Emerson has maintained a commitment to bring quality and classical dance education and performances to the residents of Bergen County.
Don’t miss this opportunity to join Clara and Franz on their magical journey! “The Nutcracker” runs Saturday, Dec. 14 at 7 p.m., and Sunday, Dec. 15 at 2 p.m. at River Dell Middle School, 230 Woodland Ave., River Edge. Get tickets via BalletArtsNJ.com. For more information call (201) 970-7690.
— Photos by Julia Chang Photography