South Jersey Ballet Theatre’s “The Nutcracker,” coming to Voorhees Middle School
Delightful! Magical! Heart warming! This season’s production of South Jersey Ballet Theatre’s “The Nutcracker,” under the direction of artistic director Andrea Duffin, is all that and more. An experience sure to please audiences of all ages, with its beautiful scenery and costumes and exceptional dancing, this is a holiday tradition not to be missed.
In December many young South Jersey dancers, ranging from 5 to 17 years of age, will participate in this classic ballet along side guest performers from the Pennsylvania Ballet and Ballet X. The dancers have been hard at work rehearsing since their auditions in August. The female lead roles of “The Nutcracker” are performed by Senior Company members and with weekend rehearsals and several dance classes during the week, these girls are dedicated to perfecting their parts.
Despite the significant time commitment and hard work, the young dancers love SJBT’s “The Nutcracker” and continue to participate year after year after year. It becomes more than just an activity; they develop strong friendships, they are always excited to perform on stage and they dream of the roles they may one day have.
As expressed by Cherokee High School junior, Guinevere Pepe and Eastern High School sophomore, Sam Pecan, “The Nutcracker” becomes very important to the dancers. “The Nutcracker” and the holiday season go hand in hand.
“I love performing and the show is my favorite part of the holiday season,” said Pepe who has been cast as The Dew Drop Fairy. “Not only do I love dancing, but the memories and friends I’ve created at ballet are amazing.”
“Dancing in The Nutcracker has become my favorite holiday tradition over the years and ballet has become a huge part of my life,” said Pecan, this year’s Snow Queen.
Tradition, dedication, friendship make the magic of “The Nutcracker” and SJBT’s dancer’s hard work pays off with four remarkable performances each year. This year the shows are Friday, Dec. 19 at 7:30 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 20 at 1 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. and Sunday, Dec. 21 at 2:30 p.m. at the Voorhees Middle School located on 1000 Holly Oak Drive. For ticket information please visit www.southjerseyballet.com or call SJBT’s box office at (856) 309–8282.
