The year is 1913 and it’s Christmas Eve in an affluent Canadian home. The whole house is stirring and gathering for the big Christmas party. Gifts are being brought, hockey is being played(!), all in preparation for this magical, ecstasy-laden eve at Clara’s house. As a newcomer to the ballet, wanting to expand my comfort level, I chose this holiday classic because it seemed accessible and I knew some of the music. I expected my attention to wander, not being a connoisseur of the dance form. Instead, I was captivated. Aside from the considerable technical skill to execute the choreography with grace and ease, there was so much character to each dancer. Some of them were so filled with charisma that it seemed sodden in their bones, I couldn't take my eyes off them. It all felt so real, I barely noticed that no-one ever spoke a word. I even welled up with emotion at one point! I loved it so much that I am hooked and will definitely be back for more. The Nutcracker, produced by the Royal Winnipeg Ballet and hosted by Ballet BC, plays at the Queen Elizabeth Theatre to shows a day until 9 December 2018. Tickets at: https://balletbc.com/performance/nutcracker-2018/ ~ reviewed by Josh Cronkhite
2 Comments
Danielle
9/12/2018 00:12:14
I have seen many Nutcrackers in my time and this RWB version is the best I have seen to date. I will 100% echo what Josh said about the emotionality and character and relationships between the dancers, it really makes all the difference. Typically for me the party scene in act one drags on but I was just delighted with all the little flurries of story happening across the stage - so much to take in! The set added a lot to the magic with just really impressive world building. This performance has reawakened for me the magic of classical ballet. What a treat!
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TheInspiredSpeaker.com ABOUT THEATRE ADDICTSFounded by Danielle Benzon, a self-professed theatre addict. Archives
January 2019
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