Kids Life Tuscaloosa November/December 2023 | Page 18

role of The Nutcracker Prince and Joey Lay returns in the role of the mysterious Drosselmeyer , the magical character who sets the story in motion . We are excited to collaborate with the theatre community this season to be the Parents in the Party Scene . Clara , the young heroine of our story , will be double cast between Marleigh Campbell , 6th grader at ACA , daughter of Mr . and Mrs . Adam Campbell , and Brylee Meissner , 7th grader at Northridge Middle School , daughter of Mr . and Mrs . Matt Meissner . You can catch their alternating performances and witness the magic of Clara ’ s journey unfold . The role of Clara ’ s mischievous young brother Fritz will be played by CeCe Hanley , 4th grader at Tuscaloosa Academy , daughter of Mr and Mrs . Doug Hanley . The enchanting Snow Queen , conjuring the enchantment of a winter wonderland and leaving a trail of sparkling snowflakes in her wake , will be danced by Liza Grace Cole , Senior at Northridge High School , daughter of Dr . and Mrs . Lewis Cole . The Dew Drop Fairy , leading a dazzling ensemble of flower-themed dancers in a mesmerizing dance symbolizing the transition from the wintry chill of Act I to the blossoming of Spring in Act II , will be danced by Maggie Moss , Senior at Northridge High School , daughter of Laura Moss and John Moss . november / december 2023

18 with authenticity and elegance . Together with the tireless efforts of the Tuscaloosa Community Dancers ’ board , cast , and crew , they have poured their hearts and souls into every detail . Their dedication , passion , and countless hours of hard work are the very essence of what makes this show so extraordinary . It ’ s their commitment to perfection that transforms a simple stage into a realm of pure enchantment , ensuring that every performance of The Nutcracker is a magical experience to be treasured .
AN ENSEMBLE OF 123 TALENTED PERFORMERS : The Nutcracker wouldn ’ t be complete without its cast of charming characters , and this production boasts a whopping 123 performers who will dance their hearts out to tell this beloved tale . Featuring local talent blended with professional guest artists , TCD ’ s 52nd production will truly be one of a kind .
Jennifer Lauren Quarles , a principal dancer from the Miami City Ballet , returns to her Tuscaloosa roots as the dazzling Sugar Plum Fairy . Joining her is Renan Cerdeiro , who will grace the stage as the elegant Cavalier . Caio Godoy , Senior Dance Major at the University of Alabama , will be dancing the
BREAKFAST WITH THE NUTCRACKER : Make your weekend even more special by attending the Annual Breakfast with The Nutcracker on Saturday , December 9th , at 8:45 am . Head to the Battle Friedman home before the Saturday Matinee and meet your favorite Nutcracker characters over a delightful breakfast . Tickets for both the enchanting show and the Breakfast with The Nutcracker are available online November 1st at www . tuscaloosadancers . com . Don ’ t miss this chance to be part of a holiday tradition that will fill your heart with joy .
SHOWTIMES FOR YOUR CONVENIENCE : Thursday , December 7th at 7 pm Friday , December 8th at 7 pm Saturday , December 9th at 10 am and 5 pm Sunday , December 10th at 2 pm
Interested in becoming involved in future productions ? Visit www . Tuscaloosadancers . com for more information on how you can be a part of this wonderful community of dancers and artists .
This December , let The Nutcracker whisk you away to a world of dreams and wonder . Don ’ t miss the Tuscaloosa Community Dancers ’ spectacular production at the Bama Theatre . It ’ s a magical experience that you and your family will cherish for years to come !