I haven’t posted an entry in a while, since I’ve been busy reading a very interesting book, “Nutcracker Nation” , to prepare for a special class at the National Museum of Dance. The book went into an in-depth discussion of how The Nutcracker became an annual holiday tradition.

It’s hard to believe that the first performances in 1892 were not well-received. Especially since almost every company in the USA performs the show annually.  In fact, most companies have to perform it to be able to survive financially. George Balanchine and the New York City Ballet (NYCB) played a huge role in helping to make the ballet accepted in this country. Balanchine incorporated ‘holidays with the family’ into his version and the NYCB performances were broadcast on live TV in 1957 and 1958. This brought it right into the homes of Americans.

While reading the book, it made me think of my childhood years when I performed in the Nutcracker with my hometown ballet company.  It brought back lots of wonderful memories. For anyone that has performed in the show or helped behind the scenes, I’m sure that you would agree that it is a very special time. I remember my dad helped out backstage and my mom assisted with ticket sales and costumes. And they would both attend the many performances.

All this reminiscing makes me want to perform in Nutcracker again. It’s too late this year as most companies are about to perform or have already finished.  At this age, I would probably be cast as an adult in the party scene of Act I.  That would be fine……. I’ve never played that role.  We’ll see.