Do you hear the sound of dancing feet and the sweet melody of Tchaikovsky's music in the air? That's right, it's that time of the year again! The Tuscaloosa Community Dancers are proud to present their enchanting production of The Nutcracker at the historic Bama Theatre from December 7th to 10th, 2023. Get ready for a captivating journey into the world of dance and fantasy!
For over five decades, the Tuscaloosa Community Dancers have been weaving their enchanting magic with the timeless Nutcracker production in Tuscaloosa. Since 1971, this beloved tradition has transported audiences to a world where dreams come alive, wrapped in the splendor of period costumes that evoke the grandeur of days gone by. This enduring masterpiece continues to spread holiday joy, captivating hearts young and old with its captivating tale, graceful dancers, and the unmistakable spirit of the season. Year after year, The Nutcracker reminds us of the enduring power of the arts to ignite our imagination and unite our community in the warmth and wonder of the holidays.
Meet the Talented Team Behind the Magic
Behind the enchanting curtains of The Nutcracker, a team of dedicated individuals have been diligently working their magic to bring this timeless production to life. At the helm is the visionary Artistic Director, Alden McShan, who has worked hard to infuse every graceful movement and scene with wonder. Assisting in this grand endeavor is the Executive Director and Costume Extraordinaire, Joyce Phillips, who ensures that each costume sparkles with authenticity and elegance. Together with the tireless efforts of the Tuscaloosa Community Dancers' board, cast, and crew, they have poured their hearts and souls into every detail. Their dedication, passion, and countless hours of hard work are the very essence of what makes this show so extraordinary. It's their commitment to perfection that transforms a simple stage into a realm of pure enchantment, ensuring that every performance of The Nutcracker is a magical experience to be treasured.
An Ensemble of 123 Talented Performers:
The Nutcracker wouldn't be complete without its cast of charming characters, and this production boasts a whopping 123 performers who will dance their hearts out to tell this beloved tale. Featuring local talent blended with professional guest artists, TCD’s 52nd production will truly be one of a kind.
Jennifer Lauren Quarles, a principal dancer from the Miami City Ballet, returns to her Tuscaloosa roots as the dazzling Sugar Plum Fairy. Joining her is Renan Cerdeiro, who will grace the stage as the elegant Cavalier. Caio Godoy, Senior Dance Major at the University of Alabama, will be dancing the role of The Nutcracker Prince and Joey Lay returns in the role of the mysterious Drosselmeyer, the magical character who sets the story in motion. We are excited to collaborate with the theatre community this season to be the Parents in the Party Scene.
Clara, the young heroine of our story, will be double cast between Marleigh Campbell, 6th grader at ACA, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Adam Campbell, and Brylee Meissner, 7th grader at Northridge Middle School, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Matt Meissner. You can catch their alternating performances and witness the magic of Clara's journey unfold. The role of Clara’s mischievous young brother Fritz will be played by CeCe Hanley, 4th grader at Tuscaloosa Academy, daughter of Mr and Mrs. Doug Hanley. The enchanting Snow Queen, conjuring the enchantment of a winter wonderland and leaving a trail of sparkling snowflakes in her wake, will be danced by Liza Grace Cole, Senior at Northridge High School, daughter of Dr. and Mrs. Lewis Cole. The Dew Drop Fairy, leading a dazzling ensemble of flower-themed dancers in a mesmerizing dance symbolizing the transition from the wintry chill of Act I to the blossoming of Spring in Act II, will be danced by Maggie Moss, Senior at Northridge High School, daughter of Laura Moss and John Moss.
Breakfast with The Nutcracker:
Make your weekend even more special by attending the Annual Breakfast with The Nutcracker on Saturday, December 9th, at 8:45 am. Head to the Battle Friedman home before the Saturday Matinee and meet your favorite Nutcracker characters over a delightful breakfast. Tickets for both the enchanting show and the Breakfast with The Nutcracker are available online November 1st at https://buy.tututix.com/tuscaloosacommunitydancers. Don't miss this chance to be part of a holiday tradition that will fill your heart with joy.
Showtimes for Your Convenience:
- Thursday, December 7th at 7 pm - Friday, December 8th at 7 pm - Saturday, December 9th at 10 am and 5 pm
- Sunday, December 10th at 2 pm
Interested in becoming involved in future productions? Visit www.Tuscaloosadancers.com for more information on how you can be a part of this wonderful community of dancers and artists.
This December, let The Nutcracker whisk you away to a world of dreams and wonder. Don't miss the Tuscaloosa Community Dancers' spectacular production at the Bama Theatre. It's a magical experience that you and your family will cherish for years to come!