Pemberton Dance Studio is once again spearheading a return of The Nutcracker to Whistler.
Composed in 1892 by Russian icon Pyotr Tchaikovsky as a two-act classical ballet, The Nutcracker portrays a whimsical holiday tale set at the base of a Christmas tree, with a child's imagination as the framing narrative. The New York Times estimated in 2009 that major American ballet companies generate 40 per cent of their yearly ticket revenues from this one show alone—a show that remains equally popular around the world.
"This is an old-time classic and a must-see in my opinion: a story of all time that stood the generations and years of running," says Anna Kroupina, owner of the Pemberton Dance Studio. "It is the most attended ballet worldwide around Christmas, the story about dreams and adventures. Even if you are not a ballet fan, this performance is meant to engage with costumes, humour, acrobatics and a Christmas spirit.
"It is one of those ballets where you don’t need to read the libretto to know what the dancers are dancing about."
In comparison with last year's production, which featured involvement from Mountain Movement Dance Collective and Whistler’s Dance with Jane, Kroupina's outfit has re-arranged several scenes like the famous Battle. An upgraded wardrobe of costumes is sure to help everybody look their best on stage.
Coastal City Ballet professionals are again on hand to mentor local youngsters and play the roles of the Prince and the Sugarplum Fairy. Kroupina encourages her pupils to view the whole undertaking as a pro production, not a recital.
'Something magical'
The Pemberton cast is all in.
"We have been practising five to seven hours every week since the first week of September," Kroupina explains. "Taking on a full ballet production is no joke—very hard and it takes a lot of time to learn the storyline and choreography. There has been a tremendous growth in our dancers. They have done our three-month crash course in ballet training, as we call it."
Cast members vary in age from seven to 47. Coastal City talents aren't the only adults involved, for there are several moms who feature in the show's vibrant party scene performing alongside their daughters.
"At Pemberton Dance Studio, we truly believe there’s something magical about moms and daughters sharing the joy of dance," says Kroupina. "Most of our moms are former dancers, and dancing along with their daughters means re-living their own dance days. So for them really it is a chance to connect, create more memories, and share the same passion for dance.
"We’ve seen first-hand how special it is when families come together in our programs, whether it’s through dancing side-by-side, attending performances, or simply cheering one another on. We love celebrating the bond that dance can foster and are proud to provide opportunities for families to connect, grow, and share in this journey."
A studio alum is also part of the team. Sophie Booth grew up training under Kroupina and company before moving away from the Sea to Sky, but is returning to her old stomping grounds for one more memorable act before high school graduation.
The show would not be going on without help from key local sponsors. Kroupina wishes to thank Creekside Market and the Pemberton Lions for their support, as well as Pemberton Valley Nurseries for transporting the entire set into Whistler.
"This year we are excited to [offer] child and senior price tickets alongside adult tickets," she elaborates. "Proceeds from performances will be given back to the local community groups like the Pemberton and District Healthcare Foundation and Pemberton Arts Council to make a positive impact. Tis’ the season!"
The Nutcracker will run on Dec. 21 at 11:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. at the Maury Young Arts Centre. Visit pembertondance.ca/the-nutcracker for tickets and more information.
