Queen City Ballet dancers in Act II, the retelling of the Battle Scene.
The enchantment of the holiday season comes alive as Queen City Ballet Company presents its 22nd annual production of The Nutcracker. This timeless classic, beloved by audiences of all ages, will grace the stage at the Helena Civic Center at 7:30 p.m. Nov. 18 and 2 p.m. Nov. 19.
The Nutcracker is a cherished tradition for families and ballet enthusiasts set to the timeless music of Tchaikovsky. Queen City Ballet’s production, known for its magnificent dancing, award-winning storytelling and lavish professional sets and costumes, has become a staple for the local cultural scene.
“We are thrilled to bring our production back to the community after a one-year hiatus,” says Artistic Director Campbell Midgley. “This year, the performance is sure to enchant and delight both new and returning audiences.”
The production features a talented cast of Queen City Ballet Company dancers, students, former alumni, and professional guest artists who bring to life the beloved characters of Clara, Herr Drosselmeyer, the Nutcracker Prince, the Sugar Plum Fairy, and the Mouse King. Audiences can also expect new choreography in Spanish and Arabian, dancing snowflakes, and a growing Christmas tree.
“There’s nothing more magical than our classical production of The Nutcracker,” says Midgley. “It’s an especially wonderful way to introduce young audiences to the world of ballet and foster an appreciation for the performing arts.”
Guest Artist Micheal Bushman of Diablo Ballet will dance the demanding role of the Cavalier with Katya Volodina dancing the role of Sugarplum Fairy. Katya is a Capital High senior and ADCIBC Youth International Ballet competition silver medalist.
“Katya has performed almost every role in QCBC’s Nutcracker over the past 11 years and it’s a joy for me to watch her blossom into the role of the Sugarplum Fairy at a professional level.” says Midgley.
Queen City Ballet alum Kaden Pfister, who recently competed at the International Ballet Competition in Jackson, Miss., will return to portray the Nutcracker Prince and dance with Capital High sophomore Victoria Volodina in the role of Clara.
“Victoria has a natural sweetness that epitomizes the role of Clara and complements Kaden’s charismatic and tender portrayal of the Prince” says Midgley.
Capital High sophomore Jaidyn McClain was a tiny archangel in the 2011 production, and this year portrays the elegant Snow Queen and Lead Mirliton. Queen City Ballet alumni Kaitlyn Ruch, Elinor Goehring and Lizzie Johnson will return to dance in a newly choreographed Arabian, as well as Snow and Waltz of the Flowers.
“This truly is a fantastic cast, and it warms my heart to be blending so many generations of dancers that call Queen City Ballet their home,” boasts Midgley.
Tickets may be purchased online at HelenaCivicCenter.com, by phone at 406-447-8481 or in person at the Helena Civic Center Box Office. Prices range from $18-$40 with special discounts available in the economy section for students and seniors. A limited number of VIP tables are available for groups.