The International Academy of Dance will again perform the famous Nutcracker ballet this holiday season; this year at the Crocker Theater at Cabrillo College.
This performance will be the third-consecutive year the Academy puts on the show that has grown from humble-beginnings to a full-blown rendition of the popular holiday ballet.
“Every year the level is going up and up,” said director Shannon Cullem-Chipman. “It’s really exciting to see.”
The academy was founded in Scotts Valley before moving to Santa Cruz, near Costco, several years ago.
“We’re a long way from the first time we did the show. We know what we’re doing now,” said Melanie Useldinger, a ballet instructor at the academy who has co-directed the show in the past.
The show features 70 cast members of all ages and skill levels, including Miami City Ballet dancers Tricia Albertson and Didier Bramaz, who will travel from Florida to play the leads, the Sugar Plum Fairy and the Cavalier, for a second consecutive year.
Albertson was a student with Vicki Bergland, the local Nutcracker’s choreographer, before leaving for New York and eventually dancing for the Miami City Ballet.
“It’s so wonderful for her to come back and to be such an inspiration to the students,” Bergland said.
Bergland said she is happy with the progression of the show over the past three years, as costumes have improved, dancers have returned each year and adults, some with dancing experience and others without, have become involved.
“I think it’s a nice gift to the community to show the different generations working together,” she said.
Pyotr Tchaikovsky’s famous score and the colorful costumes, many which are modified formalwear found at thrift stores, make it a holiday must-see
“The beauty of the Nutcracker is that it’s something (the public) feels comfortable going to see,” Bergland said.
The performers are children and adults from all over Santa Cruz County.
“For the girls on pointe, it’s technically quite difficult,” said Alaina Vallett, a 14-year-old from Watsonville, who began pointe work this summer.
The academy started work in July to put on the final production.
“The kids love it, the families love it,” Cullem-Chipman said. “It’s such a traditional story.”
At a glance
What: Nutcracker Ballet
When: 1 and 4 p.m. Nov. 26 and 27
Where: Crocker Theater, 6500 Soquel Drive, in Aptos
Cost: $15 to $25
Tickets: www.iadance.com
