Billings MT- The Billings Symphony Orchestra & Chorale (BSO&C) presents The Nutcracker in three performances: Saturday, November 26 at 2 pm and 7 pm, and Sunday, November 27 at 2 pm. The Nutcracker is performed by the San Diego Ballet under the artistic direction of Robin Morgan. Returning guest conductor Ming Luke along with more than 100 local child singers and dancers, take the stage for this charming Thanksgiving weekend tradition.
With its signature theatrics and beloved choreography, the San Diego ballet delivers a lighthearted interpretation of this holiday classic that is expressive and dramatic. Principal dancers are seasoned professionals who bring strong brilliant technique, expressive artistry and high energy to this well-loved ballet. Audiences easily connect with their inspired performances to Peter Tchaikovsky’s beloved score performed live by the Billings Symphony Orchestra in the pit below the stage.
Nutcracker Roles such as the Sugar Babes, Candy Canes, Gingersnaps, and the Boys & Girls Party Scene will be filled by local dancers under the direction of Betty Loos and Julia Marble of the Montana Dance Center. Gracie Day and Mady Hust will dance the role of Clara. Cass Sutton and Kai Sutton will dance as Fritz.
In addition to local dancers cast in the ballet, vibrant young vocalists with the ROCK Children’s Choir under the direction of Janie Sutton will sing during the snow scene.
Families will delight in the classic version of this Billings Thanksgiving weekend tradition of more than 30 years. “Must –see” simply doesn’t capture the live music, high energy of the talented cast, and special stage effects.
This annual event would not be possible without the generous support of Stockman Bank and guest artist sponsor Underrinner Motors. The Nutcracker is also supported with funds from the Montana Cultural Trust, the Montana Arts Council, and the National Endowment for the Arts. The Billings Symphony’s 2016-2017 season is presented by the Oakland Companies.
Conductor Ming Luke is rapidly establishing himself as an exciting and versatile conductor to watch. The Napa Valley Register said that his conducting had “his audience as much in his thrall as his musicians.” Also the Music Director of the Berkeley Community Chorus and Orchestra, a well-regarded institution in Berkeley, he is only the third Music Director in 45 years.
Ming Luke holds a Master of Fine Arts in Conducting from Carnegie Mellon University and a Bachelor of Music in Music Education and Piano Pedagogy from Westminster Choir College of Rider University.
For more information about The Nutcracker:
billingssymphony.com/project/nutcracker
