It’s beginning to feel a lot like Christmas.
For many in the Comox Valley, the holiday season really starts after a trip to the Sid Williams Theatre for a performance of The Nutcracker. On Dec. 16 and 17 Christmas begins as this magical ballet comes to the stage.
2016 marks the 13th year that the Laurie Tinkler Dancers have presented The Nutcracker to the Valley. Suitable for the whole family, this adapted version of the traditional classic makes ballet very accessible. The storyline is delightful, the costumes are beautiful and the length of the production is just right. This year’s show features new choreography by Natasha Kozak and Laurie Tinkler with some beautiful new costumes.
Beginning with a Christmas Eve party at the home of young Clara and her brother Fritz, the story develops into a wonderful fantasy. During the party, many of the children’s holiday treats come to life, including the Teddy Bear and a Gingerbread Cookie. When Godfather Drosselmeyer arrives, he brings more magical gifts such as a life-size jack-in-the-box and a Christmas doll whose dances captivate the party-goers. Clara is filled with delight when she finally receives her present - the fantastic nutcracker.
Exhausted from the party, Clara falls asleep and has an incredible dream. She imagines that the nutcracker Prince and his toy soldiers go to battle against the Rat King with his mice army. Victorious, the Prince takes Clara off on a journey to the Land of Snow and the Kingdom of Sweets. While visiting, she is entertained by many inhabitants of these lands. The journey concludes with the entrance of the sugar plum fairy. In the end Clara is left wondering if what she experienced was real, or a wonderful dream.
There will be two performances of The Nutcracker this year. On Friday, Dec. 16, an evening show will begin at 7:30. On Saturday, Dec. 17, there will be a matinée at 2 p.m. Both shows take place at the Sid Williams Theatre. This show will lift you into the spirit of Christmas. Tickets are now on sale at the Sid Williams box office with a price that is sure to please: Adults $17, students $14 and children under 6 years $3.