The Nutcracker: A Christmas Tradition

Most people I’ve met in the past few years don’t know this about me, but I did dance from the time I was three until I was thirteen! I was in The Nutcracker at my local studio for 3 years in a row and danced competitively for 5 years. To me, the Nutcracker is the best way to start the holiday season! My mom also danced when she was growing up, so we’ve always gone to see the Nutcracker every year.

This year, instead of seeing the Boston Ballet or the Jose Mateo Ballet like I usually do, I saw the Hanover Theater ballet in Worcester, Massachusetts. The production was great and I always enjoy seeing how different companies recreate the magic of The Nutcracker.

Going to The Nutcracker is more than just seeing the show— it’s walking into a beautiful theater, reading the program, looking around the stage, finding the orchestra, and chatting with your friends before the show starts. I enjoy the entire experience of going to see a show, almost as much as I enjoy watching shows, especially The Nutcracker.

The Nutcracker tells the tale of Clara and her Christmas gift, a nutcracker. From the playful expressions of the party boys fighting against Clara, to the tiny mice scurrying across the stage, to the beautiful snowflakes dancing as snow falls, The Nutcracker truly is such a versatile show that anyone would enjoy.