Holiday tradition dazzles audience once again

By Samantha Plumley – 1851 Staff

Mikko Nissinen’s choreography of Boston Ballet’s “The Nutcracker” has delighted audiences for the past four years and this year is no different. Parents with little girls in fancy dresses, friends on a night out, and those embracing the holiday spirit fill the seats of the Boston Opera House for the iconic holiday performance on opening night on Friday, November 25.  The ballet may start when the curtain goes up, but the magic of the performance begins when walking through the doors of the Boston Opera House. One is immediately transported to a different era sitting under the exquisite chandeliers of the performance hall. Those who frequent the venue often still find themselves marveling at the elegance of the building and gaping at the glamorous gold leaf throughout the tremendous building.

Set in the Regency period (1811 -1820), the production featured costumes Jane Austen would have gushed over. The performance features more than 350 costumes. The eye-catching jewel encrusted garments sparkle as the dancers glide on stage. Those of the Snow Queen and Sugar Plum Fairy possess a magical quality. Perhaps it is the glittery tiaras or the tutus, but their costumes were the most mesmerizing in the show. Other memorable costumes were those that looked liked snowflakes. The hypnotizing snow scene featured dancers in light skirts moving in a dreamlike manner. Dancers turned into the snow floating gracefully in the wind.

The disciplined professional young dancers contributed significantly to the performance. The central character, young girl Clara, performed by Delia Wada-Gill, captivated the audience with her technique and acting abilities. The level cuteness was raised by costumed kids and characters like the little black sheep and gingerbread man made hearts melt.

Once the dancers took the stage for their final bows the audience was released from their trance. One audience members stood up and slowly the rest of the audience followed suit. The audience gained their voice once standing and applause and cheers became deafening.