The Nutcracker

By: Niavh Gibney

12-13-24

This weekend, join Clara on her journey to the Kingdom of Sweets in the Dance Factory’s 33rd annual production of The Nutcracker. Choreographed by Ashley Hensel-Browning, this production follows Clara as she experiences the magic that is Christmas. After an eventful party where Clara is gifted a toy Nutcracker, Clara discovers that her beloved toy is anything but. Clara sneaks downstairs late that night to find that her house has been taken over by a troop of unruly mice. She attempts to flee only to be rescued by The Nutcracker, who has come to life. The two then travel to meet the snow queen, who with the help of her snowflakes, sends them on their way to the Kingdom of Sweets.

During Act II of the performance, Clara is greeted by The Sugar Plum, who rules over the Kingdom of Sweets. The sweets of the kingdom perform a divertissement in her honor. Spanish dancers representing chocolate, mysterious dancers from Arabia, Marzipan, Chinese tea, a Russian Trepak, and delighted Candy Canes perform for Clara.