Nearly 200 Dancers Hit the Stage for 15th Anniversary Performances of Alexandria Community Nutcracker
Public invited to attend shows Nov. 29 through Dec. 2. Tickets now available
ALEXANDRIA, VA-Every year, the Alexandria Community Nutcracker show adds fresh elements. This year’s 15th anniversary performances are no exception. New surprises await audiences, including innovative music to keep the show exciting.
Artspire VA, which oversees the immense production is, according to its website, “a multi-faceted non-profit organization that provides scholarships for youth to experience the fine and performing arts and inspires, uplifts and heals those in need through dance performances.”
The show’s producer, Gennifer Difilippo (who is also the founder and director of Artspire) told The Zebra that this edition features a remixed soundtrack by local music producer Conner Preston. “He remixed songs in the second half to make them more energized, hip-hop-inspired and funky,” she explained.
For the second year in a row, the production has teamed with West Potomac High School’s orchestra. The young musicians will play a commissioned piece. The school’s Dance Academy dance program is also participating
Along with Difilippo, Courtney Betzel, Zandy Sosa, Stacey Wallach, and Megan Siosan act as choreographers for almost 200 dancers. Some are as young as four years old. They come from nine studios – incorporating ballet, tap, jazz, gymnastics, and hip-hop. (Irish dance makes its return as well.)
“That’s what I love about our Nutcracker, it’s not just one studio, where it’s the same kids who see each other every day.” said Difillippo. “It’s kids from all over and they become friends, and they make new friends.”
Difillippo shared that the group is excited because the Purple Tutu Ballet VA’s dancers have a special role in the program: They are going to be in the Land of the Sweets.
The Purple Tutu Ballet VA is dedicated to enriching the lives of children with Down Syndrome through dance.
The performance debut is Wednesday, Nov. 29 for Scout troops across the area. Scout leaders can click HERE to complete a.form for tickets.
It is open to the public Thursday, Nov. 30 at 5:30 p.m. Additional shows take place, Friday, Dec. 1 at 6:30 p.m., and Sat, Dec. 2, 2:30 and 6:30 p.m. The venue is the West Potomac High School Auditorium (6500 Quander Rd.).
Alexandria’s Community Nutcracker tickets are now available at artspireva.com. All proceeds go to the scholarship program at Artspire VA. [SEE ALSO: Carpenter’s Shelter Opens Second Shelter]
