Fans mesmerized by ‘The Nutcracker’ performance

Ballet dancers have left audiences at Montecasino craving for more performances of The Nutcracker which showed from December 1 to December 10.

The show is a fairytale musical production which tells the story of Mr and Mrs Stahlbaum and their children Clara and Fritz who invited friends as well as extended family to help them with decorating their Christmas tree in their home.

Interpreting the storyline, Di Sparks who is the publicist of the show, said the Stahlbaum family is caught completely off guard when a mysterious magician, Dr Drosselmeyer arrives to stir the pot.

“He is also a talented toymaker who has brought gifts for the children, including four life-like dolls who dance to the delight of all, before being put away for safe-keeping. But Dr Drosselmeyer has yet another toy, a wooden Nutcracker carved in the shape of a little soldier which he presents to Clara. She is captivated by the Nutcracker and when Fritz breaks it, she is heartbroken. Dr Drosselmeyer mends the Nutcracker and Clara leaves it under the Christmas tree,” Sparks explained.

She added during the night after everyone else has gone to bed, Clara returns to her beloved Nutcracker and falls asleep under the Christmas tree.

“The clock strikes midnight. Clara wakes up. Something mysterious has happened. She turns to the Nutcracker and as they dance together, the Christmas tree grows to dizzying heights. A giant Rat King appears and calls on his faithful followers. To protect Clara, the Nutcracker summons toy soldiers and a battle ensues. The Rat King wounds the Nutcracker. As the Rat King advances on the wounded Nutcracker, Clara throws a soldier’s boot at him, knocking him out.”

Audience member Patricia Wallace said, “I had so much fun. My favourite moment was seeing that little boy who kept on distracting the visitors in the family during the decorations, his trouble-double persona was so fun to watch. I cannot wait for the next season.”