Tchaikovsky's Nutcracker Ballet is a holiday must for many people around the world. And for one local dance studio, Colorado School of Dance in Parker, this time-honored tradition is especially meaningful for their dancers, families, and their community.
Executive Producer and Studio Owner, Lisa Tuska, beams with pride every time you mention “The Nutcracker of Parker," especially this year with the show celebrating its 20th Anniversary! "Families are always looking for both quality and value when it comes to going out for the holidays together. Being able to attend a Nutcracker Ballet in your own neighborhood with a ticket price that will allow the entire family to attend, is what we love about our show," Tuska says. And with regard to the time and energy that goes into this show every year, Tuska says it’s totally worth it. "Watching my students have an unforgettable performance opportunity as well as my teachers being able to choreograph and produce this magic, is what makes everything come full circle for me. I am also so thankful for our audiences. We love them and appreciate their support each year!"
And Lisa is not the only one beaming about this upcoming production. "It is an honor for me to bring this classic holiday ballet tradition to the people of the town of Parker. We present the most fun and entertaining Nutcracker in town, with the liveliest choreography performed by highly skilled and well-rounded dancers. It's a true joy for dancers and audiences alike," says Elizabeth Moore (Ballet Director, Choreographer & Mrs. Staulbaum in the show).
Buzz around the Nutcracker of Parker starts in August when auditions open, not only for the students of CSD but the community members as well. “Seeing the transformation from auditions to the performance story that unfolds on stage is truly magical,” says 12-year veteran Amanda Williams (Youth Ballet Company Director & Choreographer for the show). In fact, CSD has multiple families who perform together (kids and parents) in a show one night and then sit in the audience the next. For Colorado School of Dance, this literally is a family affair both on stage and off.
And when it comes to production value, this is not just your average performance. From the costumes, to the lighting, to the Christmas tree that grows on the stage...even the programs are glossy and professional. This local production delivers the quality of a big city show to your very own neighborhood. But the most special parts of this whole show are the kids and what they accomplish. “I’ve seen the show 15 years in a row and I still get excited to watch it every year,” says Jen (Mom of 3 CSD dancers). “No matter how many times I have seen this ballet, I am always amazed at the talent and stage presence of each individual dancer, no matter their age. CSD has really gotten it right when it comes to giving these kids the tools to perform in a confident and beautiful way.”