The Nutcracker Takes Center Stage in Greenville This Holiday Season
As the festive season draws near, the charming city of Greenville is getting ready to embrace one of its most beloved holiday traditions: *The Nutcracker*. This enchanting ballet has captured the hearts of many and has become a staple in the American Christmas cultural landscape. Over the next few weeks, Greenville residents will have the delightful opportunity to enjoy not one, not two, but three different productions of this classic tale. Each performance promises to sprinkle a little magic on your holiday season!
International Ballet’s Timely Twirl
Kicking off the holiday ballet bonanza is the International Ballet, which will present its staging of *The Nutcracker* from December 13 to 15 at the Peace Center. Now in its 21st year of annual performances, International Ballet is basking in the glow of record ticket sales this season. It’s so popular, in fact, that the company is already planning to add a fourth performance next year due to high demand!
This year, the production boasts an impressive cast, featuring special guests like Victoria Jaiani from the acclaimed Joffrey Ballet and Brooklyn Mack, previously of both the Orlando and Washington ballets. With a total of 92 local dancers filling out the cast, including pre-professional dancers and academy students, it’s poised to be an unforgettable night. Ukrainian character dancer Denys Simon will also return, bringing his dazzling folk dances to life.
To sweeten the experience even further, conductor Lee Mills will lead the talented Greenville Symphony Orchestra and the Greenville Youth Chorale throughout the production. With choreography rooted in Russian and Ukrainian traditions crafted by Vlada Kysselova and Hennadii Bespechnyi, and stunning costumes and sets created at the opera house in Kiev, this is set to be a *Nutcracker* experience unlike any other!
Carolina Ballet Theatre’s Greenville Twist
Next on the performance lineup is the Carolina Ballet Theatre’s version, which will grace the stage from December 20 to 22, also at the *Peace Center*. This interpretation, titled *Once Upon a Time in Greenville*, brings the story to life in a whimsical setting that will have you chuckling and reminiscing about home. Imagine the enchanting tale unfolding amongst the scenic beauty of Greenville, featuring iconic spots like the *Liberty Bridge*, *Main Street*, and even the statue of *Shoeless Joe Jackson*!
Adding to the local flavor, some dancers will portray the fabled *Mice on Main*, while guest artist James Kopecky, a former principal with the Charlotte Ballet, will take on the role of the cavalier. Main roles will also be performed by CBT’s own principal dancers Meghan Loman and Gabrielle Moore with Martin Justo stepping in as the Nutcracker. Over a hundred dancers will be involved, showcasing the richness and talent of our local community.
Greenville Ballet’s Time-Honored Tradition
Wrapping up the holiday ballet offerings is Greenville Ballet’s production, which first dazzled audiences four decades ago! This beloved rendition of *The Nutcracker* will be staged on December 20 at 7 p.m. at the *McAlister Auditorium* on the campus of *Furman University*. Their show will feature 90 dancers, showcasing the incredible talent of local and aspiring dancers.
With choreography overseen by Andrew Kuharsky and inspired by the great George Balanchine’s style, expect a performance filled with grace, artistry, and the magic only *The Nutcracker* can deliver. Additional choreography contributions from Merry Kuharsky add to the comprehensive nature of the performance, ensuring that everyone leaves feeling the joy of the holiday season!
So, whether you’re a ballet aficionado or a newcomer eager to experience the magic of *The Nutcracker*, mark your calendars and don’t miss out on these incredible performances in Greenville. It’s the perfect way to celebrate the spirit of the holiday season, right in your own backyard!
