The Nutcracker ballet comes to life again in Gonzales

Mark your calendars and prepare for a magical experience as "The Nutcracker" graces The Crystal Theatre stage on Saturday, Jan. 6 at noon and 7 p.m, and on Jan. 7 at 2 p.m., presented by Come and Take It Dance of Gonzales.

This timeless ballet, loosely based on E.T.A. Hoffmann's fantasy story, "The Nutcracker and the Mouse King," promises to transport you into a world of enchantment and wonder.

Local dancers taking part in this production include Gary Franco, Jonah Goodwin, Nicky and Jessica McKinney, Katelyn Evans, Shaila Zuniga, Alexandra Rivas, Leah Tuch, Gabriela Rivas, Lizet Guerra, Rubi De Leon, Jessica Rivas, KayLauni Falks, Hannah Atkinson, Monica Atkinson, Natalia Moncada, and pre-ballet participants: Anna Hardcastle, Esther SHcolic, Emerie Maldonada, Sofhia Pechina, Liberty Gallegos, Averleigh Leonard, Delilah DeBerry.

Guest artists performing will include Melanie Axe, Ariana Dewing, Brandon Forrest and Devin Ellis.

A heartfelt thank you goes out to “Benefactors" donors: Monica Atkinson, HEB, Grackle Psychiatry, Jessica Nicky McKinney, Cate Caplin, Dr. Humberto and Jessica Mowbray, Dr. Arturo Southam and Dr. Beezee Daly and Amanda Hammond.

"Friend of the Ballet" donors are Celia Weiss, Dee Dee Sengelmann, Blair Taylor, Jorge Vazquez, First National Bank of Shiner and Maggy Malkhasyan. Their generosity makes this magical production possible.

Nutcracker synopsis

The story begins on Christmas Eve at the Stahlbaum house, a grand residence adorned with the most beautiful tree imaginable. The Stahlbaums host their annual Christmas party, welcoming family and friends. The evening takes a magical turn with the arrival of godfather Drosselmeyer, a skilled clock and toy maker, known for his surprises. The party becomes festive with music and dance, as Drosselmeyer presents two life-size dolls. Clara receives a beautiful Nutcracker from him, becoming the party's highlight. However, a jealous Fritz breaks the Nutcracker, only to have Drosselmeyer magically repair it. As the night grows late, the guests depart, and the Stahlbaum family retires for the evening. Clara, worried about her Nutcracker, sneaks back to the tree, falling asleep with him in her arms.

At the stroke of midnight, the magical transformation begins. Clara shrinks, the Christmas tree grows, and toys come to life. An army of mice, led by the fierce Mouse

queen, fills the room. The Nutcracker awakens, leading his toy soldiers into battle. However, the Mouse queen corners the Nutcracker, and a one-on-one battle ensues. The Nutcracker and his army face capture until Clara, in a final daring charge, throws her slipper at the Mouse queen, saving the day.

The Nutcracker transforms into a Prince, taking Clara on a journey to the Land of Snow, where dancing snowflakes welcome them. The adventure continues to the Land of Sweets, where the Sugar Plum Fairy, rewards them with dazzling dances, including the Spanish Dance, Arabian Dance, Russian Dance, Chinese Dance, Mirliton Dance, Mother Ginger and the Waltz of Flowers. The grand finale features a beautiful Pas De Deux by the Sugar Plum Fairy and the Cavalier.

As Clara awakens from her dream, surrounded by her Christmas tree and beloved Nutcracker, the enchanting performance concludes.

Secure your tickets now for this extraordinary journey into the world of "The Nutcracker" at www.comeandtakeitdance.com. You are guaranteed an unforgettable performance at the Crystal Theatre on Jan. 6-7.