This season, young Clara will once again fall asleep under the Christmas tree and wake up in a world of magical mice, handsome cavaliers and the wintry realm of the Snow Queen. The Nutcracker, a live performance by many local dancers and several professional guest artists, will come alive on stage at the Raven’s Cry Theatre in Sechelt in the week following Christmas.
Auditions took place last week for ages seven and up. Producing the popular ballet on the Coast was the dream of the late David Holmes over three years ago, and The Nutcracker’s artistic director and ballet teacher Kathleen Holmes is happy that it will dance on. Guest artist Miguel Nguyen will return to the Coast stage this year in his princely role. Students of dance make better progress when they can watch professionals at work, Holmes said.
“When they see real dancers and see real sweat, they think, maybe I can do that, too.” She’s keen to have young dancers extend themselves and try out for new roles.
“There are so many kids this year who are new to The Nutcracker,” she noted with enthusiasm. Former dancers have graduated or moved away, and some have become too tall to play the junior parts. Since the costumes are already purchased or hand-made, and in some cases are difficult to remake, the dancers must fit into the costumes in order to play their roles.
Holmes is very positive about the quality of dancing this year. In the category of dancers aged 11 who have at least one year of classical ballet, there were seven potential ballerinas. Last year there were only two in that category.
Of the older and more advanced students, 16 young women lined up nervously to audition last Sunday. Not everyone can play the part of Clara, but there are other prime parts for all ages in this popular ballet.
Holmes is always looking for boys, particularly those who are good at sports or martial arts, to lift the girls. It requires core strength and an understanding of the importance of training and practice.
“Besides, you get to work with so many girls!” she laughed.
Fundraising begins now with Tim Hortons offering a Smile Cookies campaign from Sept. 13 to 21. All proceeds from these chocolate chip cookies purchased during that time go to the Coasting Along Theatre, the non-profit organization that produces The Nutcracker. You can buy them at the coffee shop during that time or place your order with one of the cast who will be seen at malls and central locations in the near future.
The show runs Dec. 27 to 30 with two matinées. Tickets will be available at Scotiabank as of Nov. 22 and will offer reserved seating once more. See more at www.coastingalongtheatre.org
