Larry Crabtree has played the biggest role to creating Dasher's Magical Gift, produced by CNY Arts and danced with his students from Dance Centre North. 

Larry has given this story life and gives beauty to it in his own words as well, "A story ballet written by Le Moyne College Associate Professor/Director of Theatre, Matt Chiorini, Dasher was created in 2014 by local professionals and is danced by a cast of 30 students from Dance Centre North who live in surrounding Syracuse areas. The time and commitment of each cast member are demanding, in that, we rehearse approximately 40 hours before going into the theatre and then present 4 School and 1 public performance in the Crouse Hinds Theatre. Playing to approximately 5,000 people annually during the holiday season. 

Dasher’s Magical Gift is an introduction to the Arts for many, introducing the audience to dance, ballet, tap dance, poetry, classical music, mime and so much more. An educational program that relays the message that it is better to give than receive, and the importance of family & friends." 

Connie performed in Dasher for four seasons, starting as a little elf in her very first time doing the show to being the lead 'Dasher' by her last! 

When asked about her time in the cast, she claimed, "There will never be another time in my life that will be like Dasher's Magical Gift, the whole experience is irreplaceable and I don't see any other future performance eing able to create the whole process from rehearsing to performing the show. I grew up super close to cast members, both younger and older, formed a special attachment to the venue we performed all the shows in, and felt like I was giving a gift to the community I had grown up in. Dasher will be something I can never forget, and I'm happuy to keep it that way." 

Meghan performed in Dasher's Magical Gift for three years, starting as a little elf and working her way up to an attendant, one of the The Spirit of Christmas' helpers!

Meghan holds joy for this show in all the best ways and claims, "Dasher's Magical Gift was truly one of the most incredible memories I will cherish for the rest of my life. Working with such wonderful performers and crew members that make sure everyone leaves the performance with a smile on their face is something we strive for in this show and will forever be grateful for this opportunity and experience."