The Nutcracker | December 2008

CT Ballet production of The Nutcracker. Artistic Director Brett Raphael and his team provided the costumes, the sets, and the expertise, but the Granby community clearly provided the heart.

On December 12th and 13th, 2008, the resounding applause in the Granby Memorial High School auditorium was matched only by the nervous giggles, the pounding hearts, and the sighs of relief and exhilaration generated backstage by the 140 Granby children who participated in the CT Ballet production of The Nutcracker. Artistic Director Brett Raphael and his team provided the costumes, the sets, and the expertise, but the Granby community clearly provided the heart.

From sleigh-pulling reindeer to battling mice, each group of dancers had their own personal cheering section in the audience.  Neighbors, friends and family had supported them through weeks of rehearsals from the middle of soccer season right up until show time.  By all accounts, from all volunteers, not only was the production a success, but each person was proud to have played a role.

Patron ticket holders enjoyed an elegantly catered Nutcracker Tea. The Tea included passed hors d'oeuvres, festive beverages and an assortment of sugarplum sweets.  Surrounded by twinkling lights, ballet slipper trees, and life-sized nutcrackers, patrons enjoyed their treats and the opportunity to mix with the costumed dancers of the CT Ballet.