Dance St. Louis brings a touch of magic to
the Holiday Season with breathtaking performance
of ‘The Nutcracker’ by famed Joffrey Ballet

Publisher’s Note:  This review reflects the contribution of one of St. Louis’ outstanding fine arts organizations—Dance St. Louis—to the Holiday Season, a performance by the fame Joffrey Ballet of the classic ‘The Nutcracker’ at the Fabulous Fox Theater.  Because the story is that of a young girl’s dream, we decided to ask that it be reviewed through the eyes of a young girl interested in dance.  Callie Nihiser, the 14-year-old daughter of Rick and Pam Nihiser (Callie will be 15 December 28, giving her a special perspective on the Holidays) of west St. Louis County.  Callie brings another special quality to the show, since she has taken acrobatic dance for several years and is also in her fourth year of studying ballet, starting point ballet this year.  The following is based on our interview with Callie.

As I watched ‘The Nutcracker’ with its exquisite choreography, I realized that I really hadn’t taken my eyes off the stage all evening.  I believe that I was afraid that had I done so, I might have missed the magic of watching the dancers almost floating on air at sometimes, always performing at the highest level of expertise and skill.

While one might expect such grace from the world-famous Joffrey Ballet, I was also impressed with the young dancers from St. Louis who added a wonderful touch of energy and excitement.

In preparing for the evening, I discovered that this is the 20^th anniversary of the Joffrey’s interpretation of the classic production, which is probably the most famous and one of the most loved ballets ever.

The concept of the Joffrey presentation was developed by Robert Joffrey.  He moved the setting into a Victorian-era, American setting, a departure from the traditional European backdrop.  In so doing, Joffrey added the vastness and richness of the production, as evidenced by its staying power.

Interestingly, and significant, is the fact that the show is a family event.  Based on the impact it made on me, you can be sure that Dance St. Louis’ bringing this to the Fox Theater will have an impact on future dancers and students of ballet in the St. Louis area.

(Publisher’s Note:  At this point, Callie’s Mother, Pam, interjected:  “I knew from the start that Callie was seeing herself up there on that stage…she confirmed it during intermission when she told me, ‘Someday’ you’ll see me up there on stage dancing like that!’”)

Callie’s narrative continues: 

This was my first time to see a truly professional ballet company.  Add to the wonderful performance the beauty of the Fox and this was truly an unforgettable evening.