In the mood for a different brand of Nutcracker? Cohesion Dance Project offers its third annual production of Shira Greenberg’s “Nutcracker on the Rocks” Nov. 28-29 at the Helena Civic Center.
This unique, community-based, rock ’n roll rendition of the traditional Nutcracker features the music of James Brown, Aretha Franklin, the Rolling Stones, Janis Joplin and more! With a fusion of modern dance styles and a live Harley Davidson rumbling across the stage, dancers of all ages and abilities amp up the energy, infusing new life into the classic holiday tale, while leading audiences on a thrilling journey through the decades.
Created by Greenberg in Albuquerque, N.M., “Nutcracker on the Rocks” has been transforming the lives of New Mexicans for over 18 years. The Helena version features a local cast of over 50 dancers from across the community, ages 7-70, and four professional visiting guest artists. Cohesion Dance Project is the only other company and location to produce this innovative live performance.
Beginning with the traditional Party Scene, with a twist, the audience is taken on journey, visiting the flappers of the Roaring 20s, a sock hop of the 50s, and the flower power of the 60s.
One exciting scene after another showcases a unique and energetic fusion of dance styles and dancers, including an inspiring, physically-integrated Snow Scene that highlights creative partnerships and collaborations between dancers of all abilities. This year’s show features dancers using their wheelchairs, walkers and crutches, as well as dancers with autism and Down’s syndrome.
Joining the local cast are visiting guest artists from Albuquerque, Seattle and New York City.
Show times are 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 28, and 2 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 29. Tickets are $20-$25 for adults, $15 for students with valid ID and $10 for children 5 and under; call 406-447-8481 or order online at www.helenaciviccenter.com.
Founded in 2012 by Tanya Wilczynski Call, Cohesion Dance Project is a non-profit dance production company whose mission is to enrich, inspire, and unite the community through dance. Learn more at cohesiondance.org.