Fine Arts
Bars/Clubs
Dining
Music
Movies
Literature
Fitness
Recreation
Attractions
Community
Professionals
Bright Idea: [Help us out and fill out our 
By CategoryThe Sands' Storybook Theater Presents
Printer-Friendly Version | Email This Article
The Sands' Storybook Theater PresentsJune Walker Rogers' Adaptation of The Nutcracker
2005-12-15
Article Written by: Jillian Smith
If you're anything like me, this time of year, every year, you find yourself absent-mindedly humming or whistling the Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy as an official sign of the beginning of the Christmas season. The story of the Nutcracker is an integrated part of many people's holiday traditions, as evidenced by the multitude of productions of this holiday classic. Locally, a more modernized version of tale is be presented by The Sands' Storybook Theater. Though their presentation of The Nutcracker is not the famous Tchaikovsky masterpiece, it is enriched by music from Tchaikovsky's Nutcracker Suite. While it is a non-ballet production, there is still some dancing, but the plot of this play more closely follows the original plot written by E.T.A. Hoffmann. In other words, even though it is an adaptation, it is still the same classic Nutcracker that we have all known and loved for so many years . 
At a gala party on Christmas Eve, Clara (Tabitha Meeks) is given the gift of a wooden soldier nutcracker by her godfather (Richard Kulp). She is far too excited to sleep, and she suddenly finds the Nutcracker (A.J. Warden) brought to life before her eyes. He reveals to her that he is a prince and that he is under the wicked enchantment of the Mouse King (Matt Vasta). Clara then joins him in a series of adventures through strange lands as he seeks to regain his throne.
In this updated version of the classic tale, which was directed by Kylie Koscoe, the cast consists of a total of roughly 60 dancers and actors altogether. For me it was the dance numbers in the production that put it a step above your average play. Dedicated dancers from Kim Norman's Academy of Dance Arts of DeLand have been rehearsing since July to perfect their performances. Understanding the special needs and necessary precautions for these talented individuals, Artistic Director Darlene Stewart revealed that instead of the average painted floor used in most plays, a special floor had to be used to protect the dancers' feet and shoes.
At the end of this heartwarming tale, Clara wakes and finds that the Nutcracker is gone, leaving her and the audience wondering if it was just a dream or something magically more. Just then, her godfather returns with his nephew – who just happens to look exactly like the prince!
This play is a holiday treasure for the whole family, and you can catch it for yourself at the Sands Theater in DeLand on December 16 th at 7:30 p.m. and on the 17 th and 18 th at 2:30 p.m. Tickets are only $8, so you have no excuse for missing this adorable production!More information about Sands Theater Center
