Critically acclaimed Coasting Along Theatre Society brings The Nutcracker to life with dazzling sets, beautiful costumes, and nearly 50 dancers on stage. The annual holiday favourite tells the story of a young girl named Clara who receives a magical nutcracker doll on Christmas Eve and sets out on a wondrous journey to the Land of the Snow and the Kingdom of Sweets. A fantastic dream with battling mice, dancing snowflakes, waltzing flowers, and the delightful Sugar Plum Fairy stirs the imagination. This is family entertainment at its best! Enjoy a treasured holiday tradition with family and friends at the most spectacular production of The Nutcracker.
Auditions for the fourth annual presentation of The Nutcracker were held at the Coast Academy of Dance in Sechelt on Sunday, Sept. 13. The studio was filled with the anticipation and excitement of dancers from the ages of seven to 17, all hoping to secure a part.
Director Kathleen Holmes was joined by Shirley Jackson and Graham McMonagle, formally from the Canadian Pacific Ballet. McMonagle travelled from Nanaimo for the event and is looking forward to helping with the production this year. He was impressed with the level of dancers on the Coast.
Holmes is securing the contracts for the guest artists for this season. Miguel Nguyen, the Cavalier for the past three productions, is currently dancing in Argentina, but is planning on coming “home to the Coast” to dance again this year. He will be joined by at least four more professionals. Having the guest artists makes a great show for the audience, and the local dancers learn so much from working side by side with these professionals.
Performances will be held at Raven’s Cry Theatre from Dec. 19 to 22.
