The enchanting story of The Nutcracker and the Music Box will be brought to The Kings Hall this November by Wright Theatre Arts (WTA). You are cordially invited to a dazzling 1920’s Christmas party, where the story starts.
This reimagining of the traditional ballet, combining the well-loved Nutcracker with the traditional folk tale of the enchanted music box, premieres new choreography by Lynne Wright, Tamsin Wood and Nikki Saxton of WTA. We arrive at the party of Mr and Mrs Stahlbaum and their children Clara and Fritz. The mood is festive, with Charlestons, jazz-era high energy numbers and Roaring Twenties glamour. The evening takes a magical turn with the appearance of Uncle Drosselmeyer. This curious character entertains the guests with conjuring tricks and enchanting gifts for the children, which delight the partygoers – and the audience! – as they come to life.
[Holly Wilkinson as the Christmas Fairy]
The party draws to a close and Clara and Fritz go to bed. But the enchantment lingers, leaving a final dusting of magic as Uncle Drosselmeyer departs, and that night Clara makes a discovery. Adventure follows…
Clara journeys with the Nutcracker through magical lands. This traditional fairy-like tale unfolds through beautiful classical ballet scenes that weave through the story: the action is told through a range of dances with very different moods: elegant ballet, energetic tap and modern, jazz and theatrical Broadway pieces, plus dynamic Bollywood numbers.
There’s excitement, adventure, a Nutcracker and King Rat, powerful fight scenes and fairytale-gorgeous footwork – plus of course the twinkling magic of Christmas. We’re transported through magical snowscapes and enchanted lands. We meet dancing dolls, fierce rats, magical creatures, drummer boys, sleighs, and of course an enchanting Sugarplum fairy.
The narrative flows through dance. Each scene explores the sights, sounds and emotions of Christmas. Vibrant costumes, evocative music, and the detail that WTA’s productions are known for, all combine to bring depth to the production.
Wright Theatre Arts chose the story because all ages can work together, and the behind-the-scenes camaraderie translates to the dynamism of the performance. From three-year-olds making their stage debuts to older teens showcasing their years of dedicated dance practice, to the Silver Swans, WTA’s weekly ballet group for the over 50s, all ages are covered. You’ll leave the theatre wrapped in the warm hug of the festive spirit and wanting to party like it’s 1922!
The Nutcracker isn’t a production you’d often be able to see locally, so it’s a rare chance to experience this beautiful retelling. Elise Cook, who plays Clara, says that her favourite scene is a Charleston number: “It’s energetic, crazy choreography – so much fun and very fast!”
[Elise Cook as Clara]
Lynne Wright, director of WTA, says:
“I have wanted to mount a production of The Nutcracker for many years; however, the story can be a little confusing, so we felt that the addition of a magical music box foretelling the realms that Clara will visit on her enchanting journey would make the story more understandable. It also allows us to introduce an eclectic mixture of dance styles. Perhaps we need to ask if it is just a dream in Clara’s imagination? Why don’t you come and find out!”
Tamsin Wood adds:
“The show celebrates the true spirit of Christmas and the magic of dance. With all ages of performers on stage, it’s a reminder that dance connects us all, across generations, friendships, and our community. We’re sure it will leave you dancing out of the theatre!”
To get in the mood for Christmas some of the dancers went to see the stunning Christmas displays at Moss and Moor. WTA would like to thank Moss and Moor for giving the dancers this opportunity and for the wonderful festive backdrop they provided for the photos.
The production opens on Thursday 20th November, and runs on Friday 21st and Saturday 22nd. Saturday will have a matinee as well as the final evening performance, while Thursday’s tickets are discounted. Tickets are available from Stage Stubs at https://stagestubs.com/wta-dance-academy/the-nutcracker-and-the-music-box.
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