DAC Presents "Scenes from the Nutcracker"

Darien Arts Center’s “Nutcracker” Revamped for All Ages

The Darien Art Center’s Dance Department proudly presents their annual production of “Scenes from the Nutcracker.” The Tchaikovsky holiday classic is abbreviated to an hour long narrated show specifically for young audiences. Children sit up close for the show and are invited to meet and greet the characters after the performance.

The show, a Darien favorite since 2003, presents an introduction to attending dance performances. “The Nutcracker was written for children,” says DAC Dance Director and show choreographer Bonnie Gombos, “It’s an adventure that also happens to invite audiences to see different kinds of dancing. The original is just a bit long for little ones, and I don’t want them to miss out.”

This year’s production features new dances, characters and costumes, guaranteed to delight all audience members. Chris Smalley, DAC Theatre Director and teacher, stars as the Narrator, a role created to move the story quickly for young audiences. Current DAC Ballet student Bridget Mahoney performs as Clara, who receives a magical Nutcracker doll for Christmas. The dances consist of members from the Dance department’s Junior, Senior and Adult companies.

Performances will be held at the DAC Weatherstone Studio at 2 Renshaw Road, behind town hall. Show times are Saturday, December 15th @ 11am and 2pm, and Sunday, December 16th @ 12pm and 3pm. Tickets are $10, with one free adult per child. Reservations are highly recommended, as performances sell out quickly for this popular annual tradition. Call the DAC box office 655-8414, or email Bonnie@darienarts.org for reservations.