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Tchaikovski’s familiar score for The Nutcracker has become one of the most recognizable works of classical music, period. It is a testament to the popularity of the ballet that upon hearing just a few notes, one is compelled to conjure images of dueling mice and soldiers, snow fairies and dancing flowers, the Snow Queen and the Sugar Plum Fairy, and, of course, the beauty of the holiday season itself. Such is the magic of The Nutcracker. The story is almost universally known. The initial setting is a grand Christmas Eve party at the Stahlbaum home. Young Clara and her brother, Fritz are excited as guests arrive including the mysterious, magical figure, Herr Drosselmeyer, whom has brought gifts including a soldier nutcracker for Clara. She dearly loves the present, but her brother becomes jealous and breaks it. Herr Drosselmeyer mends the nutcracker, and Clara’s attachment to the small soldier is only increased. When the evening comes to an end, Clara falls asleep with her nutcracker by the family Christmas tree, and it is in her dreams, seemingly orchestrated by Drosselmeyer, that the magical excitement begins. There follows a great battle between a Mouse King’s minions and the now life size nutcracker’s soldiers. The gallant nutcracker is transformed into a handsome prince who accompanies Clara on a journey through the enchanting Land of Snow to the Land of Sweets. Along the way, the two are met and entertained by amazing characters of all stripes (and flavors). Ballet Yuma’s presentation of The Nutcracker is rooted in classic tradition but also surprises from year to year with new and delightful ‘wrinkles’. This year, the most notable variation is Jon Cristofori’s innovative reworking of the familiar dramatic high point - the fight scene. You may also notice something novel at the ballet’s onset: our cherished maid seems to have developed the notion that the entire party (and the gifts) are to be for her . . . |
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The Nutcracker