The Nutcracker, Holiday Classic in Moncton

The Nutcracker Ballet runs from December 6th-8th at the Capitol Theatre in Moncton.
The Nutcracker Ballet runs from December 6th-8th at the Capitol Theatre in Moncton.

The Academy of Classical Ballet and Modern Dances is proud to present the Nutcracker Ballet from December 6-8, 2013 at the Capitol Theatre in Moncton. The holiday classic, based on E.T.A. Hoffman’s cherished holiday story, is a wonderful dreamscape of childhood reveries, fantastic creatures and magical events, brought to life by the Academy dancers in a magical decor and festive ambiance.

Academy Director Suzanne Bourque says that many new twists and turns will surely surprise and delight audiences as the Academy continues to rework and modernize this perennial classic while maintaining its classical integrity and character. She is thrilled, with the help of director René Poirier and a dedicated staff, to be continuing this holiday tradition with the Capitol Theatre.

“We’ve reworked many aspects of the party scene, the fight scene as well as the dances in the Land of Delights; always wanting to keep this fresh and exciting for our audiences,’’ says Suzanne Bourque. This year’s production promises to bring delight and joy with the timeless beauty of Tchaikovsky’s brilliant score, impressive visual effects, beautiful costumes and dramatic lighting.

Artistic director René Poirier is excited to be able to continue to flex his creative muscles year after year with this production.

“People who come to the Capitol yearly to see the Nutcracker are in for some surprises as we’ve re-conceptualized the Land of Delights and added some really exciting new touches to the sets this year.’’ Younger audiences will also be happy to hear that a Saturday matinée has been added.

Your guides through this magical story are the talented performers who make up the Academy of Classical Ballet Youth Theatre as well as guest performers, both amateur and professional.

Catherine Parlee will undertake the role of Clara for a second year and says that this has been a dream come true for the young performer. Nathalie Scott, a graduating student from L’Odyssée high school will be dancing the role of the sugarplum fairy in its entirety this year, with a professional dancer.

“The grand pas is extremely challenging, but rehearsals have been going really well, and I’m feeling confident – it’s a great challenge!’’

Vanessa Chiasson and Lauren Guitard are two lead dancers with the Academy who are also in their last year of high school. Embodying the role of Drosselmayette (Clara’s godmother – the Academy’s special twist), Dewdrop and Spanish soloist, Lauren Guitard is thrilled to have the opportunity to dance one last time on the stage of the Capitol Theatre. Vanessa Chiasson, who will dance dewdrop and Spanish soloist, says that it’s going to be bittersweet as both will be saying goodbye to a production they’ve been a part of for many years.

This captivating show is designed for the young and young at heart and is guaranteed to awaken the Holiday Spirit within you! Join us for the celebrations!

Tickets are now on sale for $18 – $24 and are available in person or by phone (1-800-567-1922 / 506-856-4379) at the Capitol Theatre Box Office, 811 Main Street in Moncton, or online at www.capitol.nb.ca.