Nutcracker “Sweet” Glitzy 1920s Paris is setting for Tulsa Ballet’s version of the holiday classic Words by Megan Miers
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winkly lights, Christmas trees, candy canes, parties with friends and family – some holiday traditions never go out of style. For many Tulsans, the holiday season wouldn’t be complete without a trip to see Tulsa Ballet’s annual production of “The Nutcracker.” Based on a novel by E.T.A. Hoffman, featuring choreography by artistic director Marcello Angelini, lavish costumes by Luisa Spinatelli and Pyotr Tchaikovsky’s famed score, Tulsa Ballet’s version of the beloved holiday classic tells the tale of Marie, a young ballerina-in-training at the renowned Paris Opera School of Ballet. Set in glamorous 1920s Paris, the ballet follows Marie as she becomes captivated by a Christmas Eve gift of a magical 16 Tulsa Lifestyle | December 2013
Nutcracker doll that comes to life and leads her on a fantastical journey. That evening, Marie and her Nutcracker Prince embark on an adventure in which they do battle with a fierce Mouse King and his evil associates , dance their way through the snowy gardens at Versailles and, surrounded by dancers from all over the world, marry at an enchanted castle. For the second year in a row, eighth graders Stasia Boren, 14, and Courtney Skalnik, 13, will be sharing the role of young Marie in Tulsa Ballet’s production of “The Nutcracker.” The adult version of Marie will be danced by Tulsa Ballet company professionals. For Boren and Skalnik, who are students in the pre-professional