Erie's Nutcracker Reimagined at the Warner Theatre Combines History and Whimsy

Contributed

There is little more magical during the holidays than watching the Nutcracker performed on the historic stage of the Warner Theatre. This year's Nutcracker Reimagined brings themes from Erie's history to the traditional ballet.

BEGINNING SATURDAY, DEC. 16

A beloved childhood memory was created when I first watched The Nutcracker with my grandparents at the Warner Theatre. This year, Lake Erie Ballet Company is inviting Erie residents to continue making lasting memories this holiday season with their second annual performance of Erie's Nutcracker Reimagined. The show runs Saturday, Dec. 16 and Sunday, Dec. 17 at the Warner Theatre, with a special performance for school children on Friday, Dec. 15. The production was made possible through collaborating local organizations, including Marguerite's Academy of Dance, Corella Productions, Seiche Dance Collective, Sovereign Ballet, and Northwest Pennsylvania Collegiate Academy.

The story of The Nutcracker focuses on Clara, a young girl who is gifted a nutcracker by her godfather on Christmas Eve. Later that night, Clara's nutcracker comes to life and leads her through whimsical worlds while fighting against the evil Mouse King.

Erie's Nutcracker Reimagined adds new elements to the original rendition, including a script, moving digital backgrounds, and a connection to Erie's history. Artistic executive director of Lake Erie Ballet Company Christina Maria Adelhardt was inspired to add new elements to the ballet after hearing feedback from past audiences. "I just wanted it to be more because the audience that comes to the Warner, it's not just families and relatives of the kids that are in it." Adelhardt said. "It's not a recital. The majority of people who come are from the general public."

The script also allows the audience to better understand and engage with the story, especially during the first act, Adelhardt explained. "If you know what's going on, it's just way more enjoyable."

Throughout the performance, there are references to Erie's history, including the Brig Niagara, Commodore Perry, the War of 1812, Marx Toy Company, and more. "It just kind of brings a little bit more of a personal connection to Nutcracker," Adelhardt said. 

Saturday Dec. 16 at 7 p.m. and Sunday Dec. 17 at 2 p.m. // Warner Theatre, 811 State St. // $29-$49 // For tickets and info: eriewarnertheatre.com