IDEA in The Nutcracker

**For the 2023 production of The Nutcracker, CB takes a fresh twist on Act II of the holiday classic.**

Charlottesville Ballet’s goal has always been to showcase the mesmerizing story and timeless magic of this classic ballet while fostering a welcoming environment for all audience members. This year, we are excited to present re-envisioned scenes with more cultural sensitivity that reflects Clara’s spirit of imagination, expectation, and delight.

Created in Russia in 1892, The Nutcracker has a long history and has been a beloved tradition for American audiences over the past 65+ years. However, many of the traditional presentations contain costumes and/or choreographies that perpetuate racial stereotypes (see below for references and education materials), especially in the scenes in Act II like the “Arabian Coffee” and “Chinese Tea.”

Each year, we produce a unique presentation for Central Virginia audiences, examining the narrative and the past while aiming to grow and improve. After many conversations with patrons and volunteers from our IDEA Committee, we have chosen to change the presentation and language around these problematic scenes away from any ethnicity or region as seen in most traditional Nutcracker productions. We hope that these small changes to re-envision Act II are a starting place, as there is always more work to do in making the beautiful art form of ballet more inclusive.

An example of the 2015 production showing student performers with “prayer hands” (commonly seen in tea ceremonies); this port de bras is utilized by ballet companies all over the world in the “Chinese Tea” divertissement, but we have opted to remove this simple gesture as part of the re-envisioning.

We believe in the importance of fostering an inclusive environment, both on and offstage, and our production team has worked diligently with a respectful creative process that encourages continuous reflection and meaningful dialogue among artists, staff, and patrons.

Starting in 2023, our Act II variations will honor the heritage of the music and choreography, and transport the audience into Clara’s dream world where the universal love of food comes alive! We have selected sweet & savory treats (Chocolate, Parasol Cookies, Candy Canes, etc.), where the essence of flavor and presentation for each treat is woven into the costumes, props & choreography:

The Sugar Plum Fairy & Her Cavalier

Not a fruit at all, but a dragée or comfit which is a hard, round candy made of slowly added layers of fine sugar. The layering process once took many days to complete, and thus the candy was considered to be quite luxurious. With her sparkle, our Sugar Plum is the host fairy of the Land of Sweets alongside the gallant, high jumping Cavalier!

Hot Chocolate

Of course, we begin with chocolate! The fine chocolate lace is an elegant treat made with finely drizzled chocolate in intricate patterns & shapes, dazzling the eyes both in production and presentation.

Coffee

With the rich and enticing fragrance, Clara and the Nutcracker are mesmerized by the enchanted coffee brought to the table for their enjoyment.

Parasol Cookies

Delicious round sugar cookies iced with a swirl on top! The parasol appears in the midst of the shower of sweets.

Candy Canes

White and red stripes denote this candy treat that creates a snappy peppermint pop.

Shepherdess with Cheeses

Sheep’s milk cheeses in abundance… feta, manchego & pecorino offer a savory addition to the table of sweets. And thank goodness for the cute sheep dogs who herd the sheep!

Mother Ginger with Gingerbread

Wrapping up our enchanted offerings in the Land of Sweets, Mother Ginger ushers in her collection of cookies flavored with ginger, cloves, nutmeg & cinnamon. To the delight of Clara & Nutcracker, these little cookies are full of surprises!

We truly believe that the magic of The Nutcracker lies in its ability to transport audiences into a world of enchantment and wonder. It captures the innocence of childhood dreams, the joy of friendship, and the triumph of good over evil. These universal themes resonate with people from all backgrounds, creating a shared experience that transcends cultural boundaries.

We look forward to seeing you this December and thank you again for your support of this beloved holiday prodution.