A cherished holiday classic is returning to the Hickory and Unifour area for its 10th Anniversary performance! The Ann Freeman Dance Academy Performance Company, with special guest performers, will present Tchaikovsky’s “The Nutcracker” at 3:00 pm Sunday, December 2nd, 2018 at P.E. Monroe Auditorium on the campus of Lenoir Rhyne University in Hickory.
The Nutcracker is one of the best-known ballets in the world and has been performed by every major ballet company. For many, the Christmas season would not be complete without a retelling of this fascinating story. The first act takes place in the real world, but by the second act, you are transported to a magical kingdom of toy soldiers, fanciful sugar plum fairies and of course, The Nutcracker.
The role of the Cavalier will be performed by Greg Poarch. Greg is a dancer and singer, studying dance as a young boy and continuing on to performing at theme parks and cruise ships. Greg and his wife Melody reside in Morganton with their three children. Local dancer Sienna Sigmon will perform the role of Clara. Sienna is a member of the Ann Freeman Dance Academy Performing Company. Max Charles will portray Fritz, Clara’s brother. Devin Gibson portrays the Nutcracker. Devin is a former student of Studio 73 and is now attending Shaw University. Mikala Honeycutt is the Sugar Plum Fairy, Isa Blasdel, former student and graduate of NC School of the Arts will dance the Grand Pas-de-deux, AFDA Performing Company member Lindsey Smith takes on the role of the Rat King and L A. Freeman will portray Drosselmeyer. This year Talita Byrnes, a former dancer with Ballet Chicago, will portray Mother Ginger. A supporting cast of local dancers and company members round out the cast.
Tickets are only $15 and are available at the door or you may purchase tickets online in advance. Ages 3 and under do not require a ticket. Proceeds will go to Dancer's Against Cancer and the non-profit Student Educational Fund.
Start or continue a holiday tradition at Ann Freeman Dance Academy's annual production of The Nutcracker. For more information, visit annfreemandanceacademy.com or call 828-324-6058.
