Returning for its fifth production, the classical ballet will feature 65 dancers from throughout the Sauk Valley area and three performances at Centennial Auditorium on November 21st and 22nd.
On this episode of Along the Rock, brought to you by the Radar Free Press, host Kierstyn Long welcomes Christy Zepezauer, Maddy Oyen, and Michaela Brown from Woodlawn Arts Academy to talk about the upcoming production, the excitement of performing in the classic holiday ballet, and the work that goes into bringing its magical story to life.
A Timeless Holiday Story
Based on a classic story, The Nutcracker follows a young girl named Clara, who receives a Nutcracker doll from her godfather, Drosselmeyer, during a Christmas Eve celebration. As the story unfolds, the Nutcracker comes to life, taking Clara on a magical journey filled with beautiful dancing, imaginative characters, and holiday wonder.
One of the unique aspects of the ballet is its ending, which leaves audiences wondering whether Clara’s extraordinary adventure actually happened or was simply a dream. That open interpretation is part of what makes the production so special and allows audiences of all ages to experience the story in their own way.
For Woodlawn Arts Academy, The Nutcracker has become a favorite production and an opportunity to share the magic of classical ballet with the community.
Bringing Dancers Together from Across the Sauk Valley
Although Woodlawn Arts Academy offers a variety of dance styles, classical ballet remains an important foundation of its dance program. The Nutcracker provides dancers with an opportunity to put their training into practice while experiencing what it is like to perform in a full ballet production.
The production is also open to dancers beyond Woodlawn Arts Academy. By welcoming participants from throughout the Sauk Valley, the academy creates an opportunity for dancers from different studios to work together, build relationships, and learn from one another.
This year’s production includes 65 dancers, making it an exciting opportunity for the local dance community.
For the dancers, participating in The Nutcracker is something they look forward to. Because the production takes place every other year, the time between performances helps build anticipation. Dancers also have the opportunity to continue developing their skills and work toward new roles when the production returns.
A Full-Circle Moment for the Dancers
For Michaela Brown, this year’s production is especially meaningful. After previously participating in the Nutcracker, she is stepping into the role of Clara, the young girl at the center of the story.
Maddy Oyen is also experiencing an exciting milestone. This marks her fifth time participating in the production, having been part of every Nutcracker Woodlawn has presented. After previously portraying Clara, she is now taking on the role of the Sugar Plum Fairy, creating a special full-circle moment in her dance journey.
From the costumes and characters to the opportunity to perform alongside other dancers, the production offers experiences that stay with participants long after the final curtain.
Months of Preparation Lead to Three Performances
Although audiences will see the finished production in November, preparation for The Nutcracker began months earlier.
The process starts with a one-week intensive camp during the summer, where dancers learn all of the choreography. Once the school year begins, rehearsals continue every other Saturday as the performers refine their dances and prepare for the stage.
With the growing enrollment and participation this year, Woodlawn decided to expand the schedule from its traditional two performances to three. The additional performance allows more community members to enjoy the production and allows the dancers to share the results of their hard work with an even larger audience.
Performance Dates and Ticket Information
Woodlawn Arts Academy’s production of The Nutcracker will take place at Centennial Auditorium on the following dates:
- Saturday, November 21: 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.
- Sunday, November 22: 2 p.m.
Tickets are $15 each, with all ticket proceeds supporting Woodlawn Arts Academy.
The production serves as a fundraiser for the academy, helping support financial assistance for students who need it and allowing Woodlawn to continue providing quality artistic opportunities throughout the community.
Tickets can be purchased online through the Centennial Auditorium website or by visiting the Woodlawn Arts Academy website for ticket information.
A Holiday Tradition for the Sauk Valley
Over the years, The Nutcracker has become more than a dance production for Woodlawn Arts Academy. It has grown into a holiday tradition for many families throughout the Sauk Valley.
Audience members return dressed in their holiday best, often bringing children and grandchildren to experience the magic together. The production gives families a chance to make memories while supporting local dancers and the arts.
For the performers and everyone involved behind the scenes, seeing the community return year after year makes the months of preparation worthwhile.
With 65 dancers, beautiful costumes, classic choreography, and three opportunities to experience the magic, Woodlawn Arts Academy is ready to welcome the Sauk Valley back for another memorable production of The Nutcracker.
For more information about Woodlawn Arts Academy and its programs, visit woodlawnartsacademy.com/the-nutcracker-ballet.
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