The Nutcracker

by Urban Views Weekly November 24, 2015

The Nutcracker

A magical swan sleigh, patient ed gliding across the stage; a sparkling collection of new costumes; and a ‘Heavenly’ new scene: the 2015 production of Richmond Ballet’s The Nutcracker will feature never-before-seen production elements envisioned by Richmond Ballet Artistic Director Stoner Winslett. Debuting on December 11, viagra the production’s opening night at the Carpenter Theatre, ampoule these magical additions will take the stage after over a year in production. The Ballet’s highly-acclaimed version of the holiday classic runs December 11^ththrough the 23^rd, with 13 opportunities to see these stunning additions.

New additions for the 2015 production are set to include a new Swan Sleigh, that appears at the conclusion of Act I. Designed by the production’s original scenic designer, Charles Caldwell, and built by Adirondack Studios, the soft blue swan is adorned with elegant lanterns, and is wrapped in an ornate weave of rich, golden filigree and tracery. Atop her head sits a stunning crown. This enchanting sleigh, which will glide across the stage, is set to dazzle audiences as she carries Clara and her Nutcracker prince between magical lands.

Additions also include a new scene at the opening of Act II, featuring new choreography by Ms. Winslett, scenery by Mr. Caldwell, and new characters in costumes by the production’s original designer David Heuvel, including four Sugar Plum Fairy attendants danced by students at The School of Richmond Ballet (SRB). The number of angels in the production has also doubled; this year, 12 angels, also danced by SRB students, will wear costumes that have been updated by Mr. Heuvel. This new scene, where Clara and her Nutcracker Prince travel to the Kingdom of The Sweets, is meant to mimic the Heavens, complete with twinkling stars and a castle in the clouds.

New, vibrant design elements to the Snow Queen and King costumes as well as refurbishments to the costumes for the Snow Corps will also appear in Act I. Though the well-known, silver and icy-blue costumes originally designed by Mr. Heuvel will retain much of their original look, colors and details will appear brighter and sharper. The Waltz of the Flowers, near the end of the second act, will also showcase new costumes, a colorful update to Mr. Heuvel’s original designs.

Both the costume refurbishments and new elements for the Richmond Ballet production of The Nutcracker are made possible, in part, by a grant from The Cabell Foundation and The Mary Morton Parsons Foundation.

In addition to new costumes, scenery and choreography, the 2015 production will also feature 187 accomplished students from The School of Richmond Ballet, who will share the stage with the entire professional company, second company and current roster of trainees. A record number 22 boys auditioned this year’s production.

Returning for the 2015 run, Clara’s Tea Party, the popular post-show event with elegant tea and sweets event, will once again take up residence in Richmond CenterStage’s Rhythm Hall. This separately ticketed event, at $25.00 per guest, is scheduled to follow the matinee performances on Saturday, 12/12, and Saturday, 12/19. The events begin at 4:00 pm. Also back by popular demand, Pupcracker; Richmond Ballet is pleased to partner once again with the Richmond SPCA for two Pupcracker performances during the company’s production of The Nutcracker. Available pets from the Richmond SPCA will appear in the following performances: During intermission and immediately following the 2:00 pm performance on Saturday, 12/12, and Saturday, 12/19.