Photo courtesy of Asheville Contemporary Dance Theatre
By Gina Malone
On Friday, December 4, and Saturday, December 5, the Asheville Contemporary Dance Theatre (ACDT) and New Studio Dance present The Nutcracker and the Mouse King, based on German author E.T.A. Hoffmann’s 1816 story. A school performance will be held on December 4 at 10 a.m., with a general public performance at 7:30 p.m. On December 5, general public performances will be held at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. All performances will be held at the Wortham Center for the Performing Arts.
“Most people remember The Nutcracker as a lovely story of candy and dolls and snow presented in a magical setting of classical ballet with Tchaikovsky’s musical score,” says Susan Collard, co-founder with her husband Giles of ACDT. “But ACDT has been performing a different version for 14 years.”
Multigenerational professional and student dancers will present this version of the holiday favorite that includes a strong story line, well-developed characters and contemporary and original choreography. “The memorable characters over the years of performing the Hoffmann version are the unforgettable Sausage King and Queen who are in constant conflict with the devious and, eventually, tragic Mouse King who creates havoc all over the stage,” Collard says. “As in most tales, there are the hero and heroine, and all the toys and candy that help to make the season magical.”
Adding to the magic onstage are large crafted puppets and high-flying aerialists. “Clever costuming and intriguing puppets are unique to this adaptation,” Collard says.
Tickets are $37 for adults, $32 for seniors, and $29 for children and students. Reserve tickets at WorthamArts.org. Learn more about Asheville Contemporary Dance Theatre at ACDT.org and follow on Facebook (Asheville Contemporary Dance Theatre).
