AH Students Make Their Debut in Performance of ‘The Nutcracker’

It’s that time of the year where snowflakes are falling, chestnuts are roasting, hot chocolate is brewing, and jingle bells are ringing. Christmas is right around the corner and there is no better way to get into the holiday spirit than to sit down and enjoy a beautiful performance of the classical ballet, “The Nutcracker.” 

This year is the Ballet Theater of Scranton’s 48th annual production of “The Nutcracker” and the cast consists of multiple talented students from Abington Heights High School. Junior Elizabeth Schneider will be dancing the beloved role of the Sugar Plum Fairy. Ribbon Candy lead will be performed by junior Gabrielle Snyder. Tea from China lead will be performed by freshman John Roman Vachino. Trepak from Russia lead will be performed by senior Ryanna Avvisato. Lastly, junior Brennan Connor will dance the role of the one and only, the Nutcracker.

Over the past couple of weeks these dancers have been working extremely hard to make this production a priceless piece of art for the audience coming to watch them perform.

“Each week the rehearsal time increased, which meant our nights became longer,” says Connor. “We work until we reach perfection so that we can ensure that our audience gets the performance that they deserve,” Connor adds on. “All the hard work is worth it in the end because it is always so exciting to see the audience's reaction to what we have prepared for them.”

The dancers have exclaimed that the preparation process for this production can be extremely tedious.

“I have been rehearsing with the ballet instructors at BTOS and with my partner George Sanders in both New York City and Scranton as he lives in New York City and dances professionally with Twyla Tharp Ballet Company,” says Schneider. “Along with this I have been taking the time outside of my rehearsals at the studio to go on runs and participate in pilates classes to build my strength and stamina for the upcoming performances.”

The production level of The Nutcracker involves an accumulation of costumes, scenery and props, and stage effects. These attributes bring life to the stage and help the dancers tell the story. 

“I feel like two dances that everyone raves about are the Waltz of the Snowflakes and the Waltz of the Flowers,” says Snyder. “The community loves the synchronization of the performers on stage and they love how the props and light effects help bring the show to life.”

The Nutcracker is a staple piece in the ballet world and it has become a prevailing tradition for the holiday season. Each performance is a surprise to the community because they never know what kind of excitement the dancers have in store for them. Overall, it has become evident to recognize that these dancers have put in the dedication to make this year's performance of The Nutcracker an unforgettable one. 

Performances will be held at The Theater at North in Scranton, on November 25, 26, and 27 at 2 and 7:30 p.m. Tickets are free at the box office.