The Nutcracker December 18, 2008

The World’s Favorite Holiday Ballet Returns

David Taylor Dance Theatre’s

The Nutcracker

A classic holiday tradition continues at the Lakewood Cultural Center with David Taylor Dance Theatre’s delightfully different, nationally acclaimed production of The Nutcracker on stage December 18 – 23, 2008.

David Taylor Dance Theatre’s fast paced, lively version of this holiday classic is a perfect outing for the entire family. From the Stahlbaum’s grand living room to the Land of Snow and the Land of the Sweets, your imagination will soar with this seasonal delight. Sold-out performances are common, so order early.

Performances are at 2 p.m. December 20, 21, 22, and 23; and 7:30 p.m. on December 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, and 23. Tickets are $37 for adults and are available by calling 303-987-7845, online at www.lakewood.org or at the Lakewood Cultural Center Box Office, 470 S. Allison Parkway (Wadsworth and Alameda). Senior, student, child and group discounts available. Ample, free on-site parking is available.

In this year's production, David Taylor Dance Theatre is proud to showcase several new company members. Returning dancer Jennifer Kuhn will be dancing the role of the Sugarplum Fairy. New dancers include Kevin Burke, dancing in "Arabian Coffee," "Spanish Chocolate" and the "Russian Trepak," and Henry Graham who will be the Nutcracker Prince. Caroline Millikin will be sharing the role of Arabian with returning dancer Kristen Glazier and guest artist Jesse Hammel will dance the role of Cavalier. Jeoff Horgan will dance the role of Snow King and Jennifer Kuhn will share the role of Snow Queen with Natalie Kitka who will also be dancing Clara. Other returning DTDT principals include Stephanie Zak and Jackie Nagashima the Dewdrop Fairy.

David Taylor Dance Theatre Artistic Director Emeritus, David Taylor, will perform the role of Drosslemeyer, and Artistic Director, James Wallace, will add new elements to the production this year. Another highlight of this year's production will be the continued innovative use of computerized graphic projections along with dynamic lighting created by lighting designer Jonathan Scott-McKean. These techniques are employed to enhance David Taylor's unique dream-like interpretation of the Christmas classic.

The Lakewood Cultural Center 2008 - 2009 Performing Arts Season is generously supported by Rocky Mountain News – Closer to Home, Gay and Lesbian Fund for Colorado – Supporting community nonprofits while highlighting the contributions of gay men and lesbians and Aura Spa and Wellness Center at the Sheraton Denver West. Programs are made possible in part through funding from the Scientific and Cultural Facilities District (SCFD) – Metro Denver’s unique commitment to its nonprofit art, scientific and cultural institution.