“A Tradition Rediscovered” - by Desiree LaVigne-Roan and Sandra Kirk

A beloved holiday tradition, The Nutcracker, reaches across the Civic Center Music Hall’s footlights to thrill and delight Oklahoma children of all ages, year after year.  Oklahoma City Ballet has a proud heritage and tradition for this classical performance showcasing Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky’s timeless score which is expertly orchestrated by the Oklahoma City Philharmonic. Founding Artistic Director, Yvonne Choteau, set the bar high in the early years of Oklahoma City Ballet with magnificent productions of this family favorite, giving her students only the highest quality performance opportunities imaginable.  In the beginning, guest artists included Oklahoma Native and world renown ballerina, Maria Tallchief, in the coveted role of the Sugar Plum Fairy.

The love affair for this ballet runs deep in the hearts of many, who have memories of coming to their first performances of The Nutcracker with their Mother or Grandmother.  Today, many young Mothers, who may have danced a role in this timeless ballet, cherish the opportunity to share this heartwarming story with their families.  Nothing sets the Christmas season into full gear like seeing your first performance of The Nutcracker.  With delicate costumes, gorgeous scenery, and beautiful choreography, Robert Mills’ all new, traditional version of “The Nutcracker” makes a memorable occasion for all.

The Nutcracker has paved the way for many to embrace an enduring love for this multifaceted, performing art.   Like no other, Ballet encompasses such a broad spectrum.  From the athleticism and physicality of the dancers, comes story telling like no other; with music, costumes, scenery, and lighting it unfolds as a living, breathing, organic, book come to life!  It touches upon every sense of ones being, invoking mental, emotional and spiritual stimulation, that which ignites imagination, beyond anyone’s expectations. Over the horizon and just in time for Valentines, Oklahoma City Ballet audiences will have their hearts captured by the romantic and tragic tale of a young maiden, Giselle February 5 & 6. With a love so true and unconditional, Giselle, dances beyond the grave to save her beloved Albrecht from certain death, inflicted by Queen Myrtha and her Willi companions.  This historical Ballet, is a favorite of ballet lovers from the world over.  Performed across the globe since its premier in 1841, with Italian Ballerina, Carlotta Grisi in the title role, it is considered one of the greatest roles a ballerina can perform.  Adolphe Adam’s original score will be played by the Oklahoma City Philharmonic with Maestro Douglas Droste conducting.  Choreography by Marius Petipa after Jean Coralli and Jules Perrot, will be performed by your own Oklahoma City Ballet with special guests from the Boston Ballet, USA International Ballet Competition Gold medal winner Misa Kuranaga and her partner James Whiteside.

Call 405-848-TOES (8637) for tickets to The Nutcracker, Giselle or THR3E by THR3E!