Ballet, to me, is one of the most beautiful forms of art. I love the ways that the dancers are able to express themselves in whatever show they are performing. On Dec. 14, Aurinko Ballet will be performing their version of “The Nutcracker” at Notre Dame in the DeBartolo Performing Arts Center, but I was already able to see them perform at another venue over Thanksgiving break. And I can say it is definitely worth watching. I say “their version” because it is not like any other performance of the iconic ballet, for it is much more modern. This applies to the overall storyline, the dances that are presented and the music that is used.
One thing that I love about the show is its modern take on the original show. As we know, Klara is a girl who finds a nutcracker on Christmas under the tree, but not in this story. Klara, depicted as a homeless person from contemporary society, finds the nutcracker near her living place. I found this to be an interesting and enjoyable twist on the original story. Furthermore, their rendition of the Sugarplum Fairy scene is magical, exuding gracefulness as fairies dance and snow falls. It is one of the most beautiful moments you will ever experience in a theater.
Another part of the show that strikes me as creative and innovative is when they are entertaining Klara in the magical land. The company put a whole new spin on the show as the dancers perform different dances from around the world, including traditional dances from Spain, Mexico, Africa, Italy, Russia, China, India and more. The company also performs modern dance as the jesters appear on stage following the previous dancers.
I also have to mention the company’s choice of music. The show does not use the original music from “The Nutcracker.” Instead, it uses other instrumental music, such as the lovely music from “The Polar Express” and traditional music from different countries. They also use songs that contain lyrics to emphasize the storyline. Along with this, all of the dancers’ costumes are designed to match their character, which deftly captures their unique traits.
I want to congratulate and commend the dancers that are a part of the production. With dancers of many different ages, the show is made for everyone. All of the dancers do a fantastic job and are highly talented. The multiple lifts throughout the show are also truly amazing and impressive. Overall, even though it is finals week, I highly recommend taking the time to go and see Aurinko Ballet’s incredible performance of “The Nutcracker.”
