The Original Santa Cruz Nutcracker December 14, 2012

Dec 14, 8 PM; Dec 15 and 16, 1 and 4:30 PM both days

Santa Cruz Ballet Theatre celebrates its 10th anniversary performing The Nutcracker with incomparable Maestro John Larry Granger conducting the Santa Cruz Ballet Theatre Orchestra. Over the previous nine years, Santa Cruz Ballet Theatre has set the holiday mood for over 25,000 audience members. No matter what your relationship to this wondrous music; no matter how many times you may have attended, danced in or played in the orchestra, all agree that The Nutcracker is a gift. The performers truly enjoy telling the story and bringing the magic alive, not just for children, but also for those who count on The Nutcracker to welcome in the season.

Musicians who have extensive Nutcracker experience, have said that they are happiest with this production. Not only is it glorious looking, but because the musicians are not playing from an orchestra pit but rather are in full view of the audience, they are more involved and immersed in bringing this story to life.

Of course, where there is tradition, there can be nostalgia involved. Polly Mahan, who plays viola in the Ballet Orchestra, was introduced to this holiday tradition as a child. She says, "My family always attended The Nutcracker. I was five the first time. I was thrilled and insisted on starting ballet lessons immediately!"

Santa Cruz Ballet Theatre celebrates not only the holidays but also its community. In the large cast you will find community leaders at the Act I party, young dancers from all over the area with roles that are age-appropriate to the story, and alumni, who studied with Robert Kelley and Diane Cypher, returning to perform guest artist roles. Gabriel Williams, who will be back again this year as the Snow King and in Act II's Arabian variation, spent several years with the Trey McIntyre Project, among other companies. Melanie Mennite, now prima ballerina with Houston Ballet, has become a favorite Sugar Plum Fairy.

Official Website: http://www.scbt.org