New life for classic holiday ballet

What could possibly make a classic even more fun than the perennial favorite it has already become, but to add a new twist to a holiday treasure.

Perhaps not even the site of St. Nicholas descending the chimney with a sack full of toys could offer more joy to the holiday season than the "The Nutcracker," Tchaikovsky's fairy tale ballet, as presented by the Yuma Ballet Theatre.

Even though they have done The Nutcracker for many years, there are always new dancers who are part of the production for their first time says Laura Mae Hernando, executive director of the company.

"They always bring excitement to their first Nutcracker. And it's always interesting to be a part of The Nutcracker for performers and audience alike."

And this is an especially exciting year marking YBT's 30th anniversary since they launched their first production, Hernando said. There will be many alumni of the company returning to perform.

There will be two featured guest artists including Sophie Kirk as the Sugar Plumb Fairy, returning from Goucher College in Towson, Md. Their Cavalier is Bryan Wong, now a University of Arizona student, Hernando said.

"They're both young, very talented and enthusiastic dancers. For most of the alumni, it is a re-visitation of their passion for dance and they have definitely displayed their dedication to the company by returning for another engagement."

The Nutcracker has become a holiday tradition, Hernando said. It is a family favorite and one of the activities parents can take the whole family to for the holidays.

This year YBT has a new artistic director, Jared Mesa. He has re-choreographed many of the dances, "so we have a fresh approach to a familiar favorite," Hernando said.

"I really believe it is the dedication of our students from 4-year olds to adults - and their parents that is the reason why we're able to keep the mission alive after 30 years."

Performances are scheduled at Yuma High School Auditorium for Dec. 4 at 7 p.m. Additional shows are on Dec. 5 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. Tickets may be purchased at the door or at Kohl's in Yuma Palms Plaza or The Arc at the Southgate Mall. VIP tickets cost $20, adults pay $15, while seniors, students, children and military personnel pay $12.

YBT, started in 1979, is the first ballet company in the county, Hernando said. She began as a dancer with YBT eight years ago and has served as executive director the previous two years.

"It is still our mission to promote and encourage the excellence of dance in Yuma and Arizona by nurturing the highest artistic and moral values in our dancers."

William Roller can be reached at wroller@yumasun.com or 539-6858.