SPRINGFIELD, Vt. – Join Clara on her magical journey to the Kingdom of the Sweets in the Dance Factory’s 32nd annual “The Nutcracker,” Dec. 9 and 10, at Springfield High School in Springfield, Vt.
This full-length, family-friendly production is an inclusive show that has given hundreds of regional dancers an invaluable performance experience, including the opportunity to dance soloist roles that most schools outsource to adult professionals.
The Snow Queen and Sugar Plum Fairy will be alternatingly performed by seniors Athena Steele of Springfield and Kamron Yuengling of Weathersfield. Tori McNamara of Weathersfield debuts as the Nutcracker Prince, and Abbie Haber, also of Weathersfield, will be featured as Clara. Ashley Hensel-Browning returns as director and choreographer, with additional choreography by Susan Hagan.
A true community event, the Dance Factory partners with local schools to bring “The Nutcracker” to area youth. This year, dancers will perform selections from act II at Elm Hill and Union Street in Springfield, and Weathersfield School. The Dance Factory also underwrites SAPA TV’s recording and broadcast of “The Nutcracker,” which will be freely available on the SAPA TV website. Additionally, over $25,000 in proceeds from ticket sales have gone to area performing arts organizations, with this year’s production benefitting the Springfield High School Drama Club.
Tickets can be purchased at Tina’s Hallmark and Woodbury Florist in Springfield, and Sage Jewelry and Gifts in Chester. Online tickets are available at dancefactorynutcracker.eventbrite.com. Limited tickets will be available at the door.
Support for “The Nutcracker” has been generously provided by Barrett & Valley Associates, Bean Group, Bibens Ace Hardware, Denise E. Photography, Edward Jones, Getaway Mountain Campground, Halladay’s Flowers and Gifts, HB Energy Solutions, Heritage Deli and Bakery, Indelible Inc., Smokeshire Design, Springfield Co-op, Style House Salon, Tina’s Hallmark, and Willow Farm.