December 2019, Barrington, IL –– Barrington Dance Ensemble (BDE) performed its 25th annual production of The Nutcracker at the Richard C. Johnson Auditorium in the Barrington High School. Staged by Gregory Merriman and directed by BDE’s Founder and Artistic Director Mary Brennan, over 2,000 ballet enthusiasts viewed the beloved holiday tradition during the four-show run from Friday, November 22 through Sunday, November 24.
The hallmark of BDE’s Nutcracker each year is the stunning dancing by young performers, BDE company members, and world-class professional guest artists. The production’s iconic score and festive holiday scenes captivated audience members young and old. Audience members were welcomed by a visit from the North Pole as Santa Claus was present on opening night. Adding to the festive atmosphere, guests had the opportunity to shop for the holidays at the festive Nutcracker Shop filled with handcrafted gifts and unique treats.
Set to the Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky’s score, the audience was lost in the story of Clara’s magical gift, an exciting battle between soldiers and mice and the dreamy Land of Sweets. Acclaimed guest artists from National and Chicago regional dance companies performed lead soloist roles. Meghan Loman and Martin Justo, principal company members with Carolina Ballet Theater, returned to the BDE stage as the Sugar Plum Fairy & Cavalier, and wowed the crowd with their spectacular performances. Also taking the stage were 90 student dancers from BDE, the Barrington Dance Academy and other local dance studios in the Northwest Chicago suburbs.
Emma Richmond & Corinne Garrels (of Barrington and Barrington Hills, respectively) shared the role of Clara, the story’s heroine. Other featured BDE company members included Meghan Doran (Barrington) & BDE graduating senior Sasha Rice (Lake Barrington) who shared the role of the Columbine Doll. Elizabeth Yen (Deer Park) performed as the sparkling Snow Queen, partnered by professional guest artist Arionel Vargas (freelance artist, formerly with Royal Winnipeg Ballet and English National Ballet).
BDE graduating senior Maggie Pechan (Barrington) performed the role of the elegant Fairy Angel who welcomes Clara to the Land of Sweets. Graduating seniors Emma Landenberger (Barrington Hills) & Jessica Eggers (Kildeer) performed as Arabian Coffee along with professional artist Devin Buchanan. Ava Thome (Barrington) danced the spunky lead Chinese role, joined by Rose Abrahamson (Lake Barrington) and Hannah White (Deer Park). The Reed Flute variation was exquisitely performed by Mikayla Patten (North Barrington), Sasha Rice, Lucy Shannon (Barrington), and Elizabeth Yen. Kate Howell (Barrington) elegantly portrayed the role of the graceful Dew Drop fairy.
“The professional, company and student dancers outdid themselves this year rising to a praiseworthy level with their artistry and aptitude. Our dedicated staff, talented designers and wonderful volunteers played a significant role in making the shows seamless. It’s awe inspiring to witness the enthusiasm from our audience every holiday and is especially memorable for me this 25th anniversary year,” stated Mary Brennan, Founder and Artistic Director of BDE.
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