By Carol Della Penna
A holiday tradition, The Roxey Ballet’s “The Nutcracker” returns for its 18th season. Performances will be held both in select locations throughout New Jersey and locally at Kendall Theater on the College of New Jersey campus in Ewing, NJ. This highly acclaimed annual holiday event has become a favorite tradition of area residents and visitors alike. “This production is known as the most child friendly production in the region. Every year we incorporate new enhancements to dazzle our audiences and this year is no exception,” said Mark Roxey, Artistic Director of Roxey Ballet.
The cast is made up of over 100 professional, pre-professional, and student dancers and actors from around the area. This year’s production will feature surprise community leaders who will join the cast, performing alongside the company’s world classic roster of professional artists.
Roxey Ballet’s “The Nutcracker” is a joyous and magical way to begin the holiday season. This affordable show provides the perfect introduction to ballet for children of all ages. Even the smallest children are mesmerized by the timeless and beautiful classical music, costumes, special effects, and accessible story.
Clara and her friends promise to take you on her enchanting voyage meeting magical mice, giant rats, marching soldiers, swirling snowflakes, waltzing flowers and the beautiful Sugar Plum Fairy and her cavalier. Children should plan for a visit from Santa and his jolly friends!
Mark Roxey, director and co-founder of the Roxey Ballet Company, directs the production. Alicia Worden and Nilda Roxey designed the 300 plus costumes with lighting design by Charlie Jarboe, a former dancer with Roxey Ballet and now professional lighting designer.
“The Nutcracker” opens Saturday, November 24, 2012 at 3:00 pm. Thereafter, shows are Sunday, November 24 at 3:00 pm.; Saturday, December 1 at 3:00 pm.; Sunday December 2 at 3:00 pm.; and Monday, December 3 at 10:00 am (special student matinee and open to the general public). Monday’s concert is ideal for the littlest of audiences as it includes a question and answer session, as well as a meet and greet and autograph signing directly following the concert.
Tickets are on sale now and range from $15 to $50; discounted group rates are available for groups of twenty or more. For more information or to purchase tickets visit the company website at www.roxeyballet.org or call 609.397.7616

