The Westmoreland Symphony Orchestra will present two performances of the holiday classic “The Nutcracker,” featuring Texture Ballet School and guest dancers from Texture Contemporary Ballet on Saturday, December 11 at 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. at the Palace Theater in Greensburg.
WSO Artistic Director Daniel Meyer will direct the performances.
“We are thrilled to welcome audiences back to enjoy The Nutcracker this holiday season with the full orchestra and over 120 dancers bringing the classic story to life on the Palace Theater stage,” said Endy Reindl. , Executive Director of the WSO.
“The Nutcracker” will feature choreography by Texture Contemporary Ballet Artistic Director Alan Obuzor, who is a member of Dance Magazine’s 2013 “Top 25 to Watch” list, and Texture Associate Artistic Director Kelsey Bartman, who is co- creator of WIP Choreography Project. .
The role of Clara will be performed by Eve Alexandra Snyder and Alyssa Herter. Avery Walz will dance the role of the Sugar Plum Fairy, while the Nutcracker Prince will be played by Jonah Rensi and Owen Fallon.
Professional dancers include Alan Obuzor as Cavalier, Christopher Bandy, Kelsey Bartman, Madeline Kendall, Hannah Knorr, Elaina Sutula and Sophie Powell.
“The Nutcracker” was created in the 19th century and remains a holiday favourite. This timeless classic follows young Clara and her Nutcracker Prince as they are swept away on an enchanting adventure, led by the mysterious Drosselmeyer and Lady Silberhaus. On this epic journey, they join forces with soldiers to battle the evil Rat Queen and her mouse entourage and journey to a breathtaking winter wonderland of dancing snowflakes. When they finally enter the magical land of sweets, Clara is introduced to the land’s many vibrant characters, dazzled by the waltz of flowers and captivated by the beauty of the sugar plum fairy and her rider.
“There is a magic created for performers and audience members when live dancing and live music come together. I’ve had the privilege and honor of performing The Nutcracker with the WSO for many years, and now I’m beyond thrilled to share some of that magic with the dancers of Texture Ballet School and Texture Contemporary Ballet. “said Obuzor.
Tickets are $16 and up; group rates available. Call 724-836-8000 or visit www.thepalacetheatre.org
The title sponsor is the Tribune-Review.
Guests are required to wear masks in the Palace Theater for the safety of all attendees. Additional safety measures that will be in place at the Palace Theater include enhanced cleaning and disinfection procedures and an improved HVAC system. The Palace Theater has also implemented additional security procedures. All people must go through the theater screening process to enter the theater, which includes bag checks and metal detectors.
The Westmoreland Symphony Orchestra began in 1969 when a group of community leaders and musicians assembled an orchestra for several concerts at a local high school. Now, 53 years later, the WSO brings world-class soloists to the stage. Under Meyer’s artistic direction, the WSO presents four classical concerts and one holiday pop concert, all at the Palace Theater in downtown Greensburg, as well as an annual summer concert in the park. The WSO Academy of Music offers educational programs for all ages. For more information, visit www.westmorelandsymphony.org or call 724-837-1850.
Pittsburgh-based Texture Contemporary Ballet was founded in 2011 by Obuzor. Texture Contemporary Ballet is comprised of “classically trained professional ballet dancers who have danced and trained in some of the best ballet companies and schools in America. Resident and guest dancers come together to create and present predominantly contemporary and neo-classical works. Texture strives to inspire dancers, teachers, directors, choreographers, audiences and performers of all genres by presenting ballet in innovative ways. We believe it is important to break down any preconceptions people may have when attending ballet for the first time. Yet Texture simultaneously meets the expectations of both avid viewers and those deeply immersed in the world of dance. Therefore, Texture is both unique and inviting, while adhering to technical and presentation standards.
