A Christmas Classic
The Nutcracker presented by The National Ballet of Canada
It's that time of the year again. Cuddle up with those you love at the Four Seasons Centre in Toronto, Ontario to see the spectacle of of dancers, music and imagination.
The National Ballet of Canada is once again proud to present The Nutcracker filling the stage at The Four Seasons Centre for the Performing Arts in Toronto, Canada. From December 9 to 30, 2006, the timeless family Christmas tradition will grace the stage and incite imaginations once again.
As a child, one of my very first memories of the spectacle was getting dressed up in my most gloriously frilly gown and walking hand-in-hand with my father and mother in anticipation of seeing what hordes of peoples were waiting for behind the theatre doors. What awaited me behind the red velvety curtains was The Nutcracker ballet. This tradition reaches far beyond my years, since its premiere was in St. Petersburg, Russia in 1892. And for over 100 years, thousands and thousands of families, couples and friends have gathered together to enjoy the mystery and wonder and to see their imaginations sparked with the spirit of the Christmas season.
James Kudelka version of The Nutcracker has been annually produced for over ten years now. Originally choreographed and set to Tchaikovsky’s timeless romantic score for the National Ballet, Kudelka's choreography unanimously captures the excitement and childhood wonder of all children around the magical time of Christmas. Setting his Nutcracker in the 19th century Russia, Kudelka surely evokes the spirit of the original story upon which the ballet was based, The Nutcracker and the Mouse King by Prussian E.T.A. Hoffman (1816).
Viewers of all ages can follow young siblings, Misha and Marie, through their parents' Christmas party and the enchanting land of Sugar Plum Fairies and the Snow Queen. Having seen The Nutcracker numerous times, and having been involved in the production more than once as an adolescent and child, I can certainly say for myself and thousands of people, that The Nutcracker never ceases to remind that the Spirit of Christmas brings joy, excitement, awe and curiosity for all ages.
For more information on the National Ballet of Canada’s production of The Nutcracker, please visit The National Ballet of Canada.
