November 29, 2005 > Ballet Petit Performs the Nutcracker

by Heidi Leung

Ballet Petit, the East Bay's only all classical ballet school, is presenting their 21st production of the Nutcracker ballet. It all started in 1977 at Happy Time Nursery School in Fremont. Peggy Peabody, having ended her studies at San Francisco Ballet, decided to teach ballet as a nursery school activity which eventually evolved into Ballet Petit. Peggy's original production of the Nutcracker, which included a hilarious dancing tree and a young Sugar Plum fairy, started in 1979. Now, it has matured into a production that involves both children and pre-professional ballerinas who have been to summer programs such as San Francisco Ballet, Contra Costa Ballet, and ABT (American Ballet Theater).

The Nutcracker is a story of a young girl named Clara who receives a nutcracker during her family's Christmas Party from her Uncle Drosselmeyer, who is a toymaker and magician. Her brother breaks the Nutcracker in a fit of jealousy, which promptly ends the party for the children as they are shuffled off to bed. That night, Clara goes downstairs to check on her Nutcracker and finds that he has come to life and is fighting against the Rat King. She eventually saves the Nutcracker's life by throwing her herself between the two to end the fight. The Nutcracker then whisks her away to the land of the Sugar Plum Fairy where she is thoroughly entertained by much dancing and celebration. Afterward, Clara wakes up to find herself at home, with her Nutcracker safely in her arms and wonders if it was really just a dream.

Whether you're a fan of theater and dance, beautiful costumes, or cute children, Ballet Petit's Nutcracker has always been a delightful event for all audiences. In addition to the beautiful dancers, there will be a new backdrop this year for the land of the Sugar Plum Fairy, as well as refreshments served during intermission. This program will leave you feeling excited about the holidays.

Ballet Petit's Nutcracker
Saturday, December 3rd at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.
Sunday, December 4th at 7 p.m.
Chabot College Theatre of Performing Arts
25555 Hesperian Blvd., Hayward
(510) 324-4988

www.balletpetit.com

Tickets: Adults $18, Children (3-12), Seniors $14, Group discounts available.