Each year, Berks Ballet Theatre (BBT) brings the magic of the holiday season to life on-stage through its production of The Nutcracker. Despite the COVID-19 pandemic, this year is no exception. Audiences will be treated to The Nutcracker Suite, a condensed version of the annual production, fit for the current moment in time happening Saturday, Dec. 19 at 7pm EST.
A virtual experience, attending The Nutcracker Suite means you and your loved ones will have a front-row seat from wherever you are. The ballet’s first act begins with Drosselmeyer, performed by BBT’s Ballet Master and Resident Choreographer, Nathan Bland, gifting the coveted nutcracker doll to Clara, performed by Faith Hartman. The story continues through dazzling dance moments, with the arrival of the Waltz of the Snowflakes. In act two, Clara’s journey takes her to the magical Land of the Sweets where audiences are sure to be delighted by the many divertissements through a dancing feast for the eyes. An added feature of this year’s experience is a voiced-over narration which guides the story set to classical ballet and Tchaikovsky’s memorable score.
Amid changes to accommodate safety guidelines, something that’s remained unchanged is the company’s commitment to quality. As always, audiences will appreciate the beautiful, custom-made costumes and be delighted by the precision and talent of the dancers. The production will feature BBT company dancers cast in all lead and corps de ballet roles, along with the namesake conservatory students performing the roles of the Angels.
To our community (and beyond), BBT expresses their gratitude for continued support and is grateful for the opportunity to mount this unique performance. The last time BBT took the stage was at the Delaware Dance Festival in February at the Grand Opera House in Wilmington. Artistic Director, Kelly Barber, and Bland are thrilled to be able to offer this opportunity for their dancers in a safe and controlled environment, and to audiences everywhere via this special virtual experience!
Tickets are now on sale! Be sure to purchase your front-row seat to Berks Ballet Theatre’s The Nutcracker Suite by visiting berksballettheatre.com.
