The Nutcracker Ballet is returning to Seaside for the fourth year, this time to be performed by Northwest Florida dancers with the addition of Ballet Pensacola.
Now established as a Seaside holiday tradition, the one-time performance is free and open to the public Saturday, November 21, at 5 p.m. under the stars at the Seaside Amphitheater.
Ballet Pensacola Artistic Director and General Manager Richard Steinert is directing the performance. Known for his innovative and collaborative style of theatre and dance, Steinert has worked in repertory companies throughout the United States.
“From dancing candy canes to sparkling fairies and snow, the whimsy of the Nutcracker performance in Seaside will create wonderful memories for every member of the family,” said Steinert.
The performance will featuring Acts I and II, and will last approximately an hour.
Set to a score by Peter Ilyitch Tchaikovsky, the performance will feature approximately 30 Ballet Pensacola ballerinas and ten local dancers, ages 8 to 18.
The first Nutcracker in Seaside was performed in 2012 when Seaside co-founder and patron of the Arts Daryl Davis invited Alpharetta Dance Theatre dancers to perform with the Dance Academy of Seaside Neighborhood School. There was standing room only for that first performance.
Seleta Hayes Howard, Nutcracker Ballet Mistress and Special Projects Director has been rehearsing the ten local dancers since September.
“Participating in the Nutcracker ballet in Seaside provides area dancers with a platform in which to improve their confidence, discipline, and dance skills for both presenting material and working toward a goal,” Howard said. “This gives them a great sense of achievement as well as skills they will use in all life situations. It is an honor to share in this magical, cultural experience with our community and region.”
In case of inclement weather, the performance will be held on Sunday, November 22, at 5 p.m. at the Lyceum Lawn next to the Seaside Neighborhood School.
