The Nutcracker

The Nutcracker
Colorado Ballet
Ellie Caulkins Opera House
Denver, CO
November 26 - December 24, 2011

The Nutcracker is an undeniable classic, but it was not a tradition for my family. I was interested in find out the appeal of this holiday ballet.

It is my understanding that the Colorado Ballet production is abridged for families. I'm not sure how long the original is, but this performance seemed just the right length.

The story is simple. Clara is given a nutcracker for Christmas by the mysterious Herr Drosselmeyer. On Christmas Eve, the nutcracker comes to life and with Clara's help defeats the evil Rat King. Then to thank her, the Nutcracker Prince takes her to a magical land of dancing snowflakes and luxurious treats.

I was surprised at how much of the music I knew. The Tchaikovsky score is very familiar. However, the dancing and costumes make it even more special. When the Sugar Plum Fairy dances her theme song is completely new.

Visually, the story is compelling. The snowflake ballerinas in their fluffy white tutus make you feel the snow. And the gorgeous costumes twirling on the stage surrounded by falling flakes for the close of Act One is stunning.

Act Two is a collection of dances inspired by international holiday treats. "The Waltz of the Flowers" is very beautiful, but the male Russian dancers and the Chinese Tea dancer steal the show with their athletic leaps.

The show is charming and fun. Even those who are not fans of the ballet will enjoy the magic and wonder of this holiday classic.