LANSING, Mich. — Start the holiday season in a spectacular fashion with a performance of Tchaikovsky’s classic ballet, The Nutcracker. Presented for the 39th year, Children’s Ballet Theatre (CBT) will stage the seasonal favorite at the Margaret Livensparger Theater at Holt High School on Friday, November 29th and Saturday, November 30th at 7:00 p.m. and again Sunday, December 1st at 2:00 p.m. This year will be especially exciting as it will be the inaugural Nutcracker for Artistic Director, Jesse Rand Powers. Tickets are available at http://cbtdance.simpletix.com/ or can be purchased at the door.
“This year promises a new vision on a beloved ballet,” said Caryn Rhodes, CBT Board member, “All of the favorite pieces from Tchaikovsky’s score will be included, but with a fresh approach to the choreography and a stunning cast of dancers.”
A must-see for the entire family, this year’s The Nutcracker is a faithful rendition of the ballet. As always, the performance will be enlivened with exquisite costumes and impressive sets. Join Clara and her family as they prepare for a Holiday party, and watch her receive a gift of a magical Nutcracker doll from her mysterious Uncle Drosselmeyer. After a thrilling battle against the army of the Rat Queen, journey with Clara through the Land of Snow. Finally, celebrate with her and an entire company of delights as she arrives in the Kingdom of Sweets and meets the Sugar Plum Fairy.
The principal role of Sugar Plum Fairy will be played by Lansing Catholic Senior, Emelia Rush (Friday and Sunday) and Holt High School Senior, Hannah Berry (Saturday and Monday). The Snow Queen will be performed by Okemos Junior, Ava Patterson (Friday and Sunday) and Grand Ledge senior, Katie Beckwith (Saturday and Monday). The roles of Clara and Fritz will be played by Emily Keller of St. Johns and Amelia Pauly of East Lansing.
In addition to the CBT company members, the cast will feature dancers from the Children’s Miracle Network, little guest dancers, and male guest dancers. This year, CBT is delighted to include the MSU Children’s Choir in the performances. Look for additional performances and appearances during November at the MSU Broad Museum, the Turner Dodge House, Troppo’s Santa Brunch, the University Club’s Ballerina Brunch, and several local libraries.
The company continues its longstanding commitment to community outreach and access to the arts by offering discounted student tickets to our community group performance on Monday, December 2nd at 10:00 am. Teachers and group leaders are encouraged to reach out to CBT for ticket information for this and our spring season show. Seniors, children, and veterans are eligible for ticket discounts to any of the shows.
CBT has long been known as the premiere, audition-based, non-profit pre-professional ballet company for male and female dancers (ages 8-18) in the capital city area. Company members represent communities from Grand Ledge to Williamston, and from Jackson to St. Johns. Over the years, CBT has not only produced quality, professional productions, but has also offered excellent training opportunities and ballet instruction offered through the Academy, master classes, summer intensives and weekly rehearsals.
Dancers interested in auditioning for Childrens’ Ballet Theatre are encouraged to visit cbtdance.org for additional information on the December 7, 2019 audition date.
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