QUICKQUOTES

We asked some of the key Nutcracker performers: “Why is presenting The Nutcracker at Christmas time so special to you personally?” Regeanna Stubel, artistic director for the Canadian School of Ballet:

“To me, it’s a Christmas tradition and I also danced in it when I was a young dancer. So it’s like full circle to be the director and also to have danced in it. That’s one of the things that make it heartfelt for me. … It makes a big difference when we get to the theatre and it all comes together. At the studio, it’s not the same feeling. But once we get to the theatre with the costumes, the backdrop, the lighting, the stage crew, it makes a big difference. Then it’s magic, which we have this year.”

Valentin Chou, who plays Cavalier (along with Kurt Werner):

“I think that it’s really special to bring The Nutcracker for the Christmas season. Being from France, it’s not much of a tradition. So I’ve learned when I moved to North America that The Nutcracker is something really big around Christmas. … I’ve been doing The Nutcracker for four years now … So it has become a bit of a tradition for me now.”

Milena Perini, who plays a mother in the opening scene:

“It is very special for us. We started doing rehearsals around the beginning of October, we practise every weekend, and we become family. … I’ve been doing it for the last four years but this year is extra special because my daughter is Clara. I get nervous; I get happy for her. It’s pretty exciting to see her dream to become Clara come true. … She worked hard; she is just so excited and so happy to perform. She is dancing with her best friends, you see the smiles on stage.”

Isabella Perini, 15, (who plays Clara along with Hannah Zobel):

“Personally, it’s so special because it is just so cheerful and exciting and happy. It’s just such a classic tradition for Christmas that it kicks off everything nice, everything good. I’ve been dancing for five years, since I was 10, and I’ve always looked up to Clara. It’s an amazing role.”

Hannah Zobel, 17, (who also plays Clara):

“I just think it really kicks off the holiday season. It’s something so special; it just so sets the tone for Christmas in general. I’ve been dancing for 14 years, since I was three. … This is my second time doing Clara. I think this time I’m so more able to play with the role, to play with her character, who she is.”