Big Ticket Review:
Reno Dance Company’s ‘Nutcracker Ballet’

By Katherine E. Hill

Local dancers from the tiniest of tots to young adults with the Reno Dance Company took the stage in December to present their 10th annual performance of “The Nutcracker” at John Ascuaga’s Nugget.

A timeless Christmas class, the Reno Dance Company didn’t disappoint with a spectacular performance from local dancers. I was pleasantly surprised at the caliber of the performers, the costumes and the choreography, all of which made for a wonderful afternoon during the Christmas Eve performance that I enjoyed. The Reno Dance Company performance included a multicultural mix of dancers with 16-year-old Shalani Taylor in the lead role of Clara. This young dancer shows an expertise and technique years beyond her age and I hope that she continues to pursue her dancing career as I could image her performing in lead productions on much larger stages in her future. Christopher Wrede as the Nutcracker Prince gave a stellar performance showing amazing skill and grace.

“The Nutcracker” has been performed since it premiered in 1892, although it didn’t become popular until the mid-20th century, with it now being performed by local and international dance companies alike around the globe. The Reno Dance Company’s performance gave its entire cast the chance to shine from the Maids, played by Heather Costella and Brianna Dusich, who added a comedic twist to many of the numbers in their roles as maids, to the littlest dancers presented in Act II from the Marzipan Sweets, to the Chinese Cookies, to the Peppermint Twists, each with their own short numbers that had the audience cheering.

Herr Drosselmeyer, played by Brit Burns, Clara’s godfather, who presents her with the Nutcracker gave an amazing performance as the mysterious figure with enchanting powers. Burns also gave a technically challenging performance that wowed the audience along with Ashley Eisert as the Arabian Coffee in Act II.

Look for the Reno Dance Company to perform “Rhythm of the Night” on July 5 at Wingfield Park along the Truckee River in Reno as part of the ARTown performances.