About Our Nutcracker
Tchaikovsky’s enchanting ballet premiered in 1892 and is based upon Russian author E.T.A. Hoffman’s fairytale for children. Because the Ramsdell Theatre opened its doors around the time of this Nutcracker premiere, I decided to stage our version of the ballet in the heyday of Victorian life—utilizing painted scenery, original stage floor lifts, and large backstage crew to showcase the Ramsdell’s charming theatrical features at its full scale—as it may have been used during early touring productions first seen on its stage. Note that this ballet story originated an era where “faraway people and places” and “exotic” foods represented were still naively greeted with awe or surprise —not intended to diminish or stereotype; it was celebratory to receive an orange or tangerine in one’s Christmas stocking, for example.
Our Nutcracker Ballet premiered in 1998, to celebrate a major milestone in the Ramsdell Theatre’s renovation. A collaborative project of this magnitude has taken an army of allies; well over 200 people have helped to assemble this production, which is usually presented biennially. The production involves over 80 roles and represents the work of dozens of seamstresses, visual artists, technicians, volunteers, and coordinators. Although ever-changing, our ballet still features some crafting of the many who were involved in its premiere or early productions in its 26-year-old history.
The performers you will see onstage collaborate from Manistee, Mason, Lake, Benzie, Wexford, and Grand Traverse counties. They logged many miles for auditions and months of weekend rehearsals! Most of the dance roles were cast by a jury panel at auditions in July and August; dancers are the students of many area teachers. The cast also includes performers from the area who may have some special kinship or connection to this production. Some have returned to this Nutcracker project since they were small children. Often, entire families are involved. The focal point of this Nutcracker Ballet project is community involvement that stretches far beyond our county borders. We become better acquainted with our neighbors. Together, we continue to celebrate the magical Ramsdell Theatre as we present a classic holiday story without uttering a word.
-Ingrid Bond
