Annual Tradition Returns with The Nutcracker: Corpus Christi Ballet Brings Magic Back to Coastal Bend
by KRISTA M. RUSSELL-ADAMS
The Corpus Christi Ballet dances its way back onto the stage at the Selena Auditorium – American Bank Center for two weekends in December with The Nutcracker with a full cast of characters.
For over 30 years the Corpus Christi Ballet (CCB) has brought to life Pyotr Tchaikovsky’s holiday classic, a two-act ballet adapted from The Nutcracker and the Mouse King by E. T. A. Hoffman, under the talented direction of Cristina Munro and Alexandra Emory.
“We are so excited to be back on stage and to make the magic happen [again],” said Ms. Munro.
The Coronavirus pandemic threatened to cancel last year’s production of The Nutcracker. After much deliberation, and because the show must go on, the Corpus Christi Ballet modified their annual production into “The Land of Sweets.” Instead of the two and a half-hour show, the production was shortened to forty-five minutes. By eliminating the First Act, or “The Party Scene,” the Ballet was able to eliminate half the total cast (usually 150 members) – thereby making it possible for dancers to socially distance both on and off stage.
To ensure the safety of both dancers and the audience, performances were held in the newly constructed outdoor tent at the Corpus Christi Museum of Science and History. Rather than four performances over the course of two consecutive weekends, “The Land of Sweets” only had two performances before a limited and spaced-out audience. New additions to the enchanting costumes worn by cast members were coordinating masks made by Bunting Dancewear.
This year a full cast will return to stage for a full production. Half-price tickets are available for Family Weekend, December 11 and 12. Gala Weekend, December 18 and 19, features live music from the Corpus Christi Symphony Orchestra and tickets are regular price. More information can be found at www.corpuschristiballet.com/tickets.
