‘The Nutcracker’ ballet to dance across stage at Cal U
CALIFORNIA – California University of Pennsylvania’s Department of Theatre and Dance will present “The Nutcracker” at 8 p.m. Friday, Dec. 6, and 2 and 8 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 7-8, in Steele Auditorium. The production of “The Nutcracker” is being overseen by acting artistic cirector Donna Marovic-Anthony and is choreographed by Dr. Richard Helidobler, interim dean of the college of liberal arts.
Returning this holiday season is guest artist Andrew Drost. This year’s production combines the talents of more than 100 dancers and actors of 26 different local dancing schools from 31 different communities. The production also features more than 500 magnificent costume pieces and three complete scenery changes.
The story centers on Clara and her magical godfather Drosselmeyer. One Christmas Eve, Drosselmeyer gives Clara a beautiful nutcracker for a Christmas gift. Her stubborn brother, Fritz, steals the doll and, in a jealous rage, breaks it.
That night Clara sneaks downstairs to retrieve the broken toy and falls asleep under the Christmas tree. Drosselmeyer mysteriously reappears and gives Clara one more Christmas gift – a wonderful dream.
The dream takes Clara through a snow-covered enchanted pine forest where the snowflakes dance a beautiful waltz in her honor. She is then escorted to the Kingdom of Sweets, where many beautiful dolls come from different countries dance in her honor. Alas, all good things must come to an end as Clara is awakened by her father and carried off to bed.
Last year’s production was a sell out, with patrons turned away at the door. Al1 seats are reserved. Tickets are on sale for $10 for adults and $9 for seniors and children under age 12.
Students with a valid Cal U ID are admitted free. For more information, call the box office at 724-938-5943.