Wednesday, November 22, 2000

By MICHAEL BOYLAN
mboylan@TheCitizenNews.com

It began as a Christmas performance 13 years ago and has grown to become an annual holiday tradition in the community.

Fayette Ballet, a nonprofit cultural and educational organization based in Fayette County, brings its production of "The Nutcracker" to Sams Auditorium, for four performances this weekend.

Set in Germany, the story takes place on Christmas Eve a century ago. Following a festive evening, little Clara falls asleep with a magical nutcracker. She dreams of a world where the Christmas tree grows and the Nutcracker comes to life to lead an army of toy soldiers into battle against the Mouse King and his followers.

Later, the Nutcracker becomes a handsome prince who invites Clara to the Kingdom of Sweets, where they are greeted by the Sugar Plum Fairy and entertained by dancers from different lands. Before returning home, the Sugar Plum Fairy crowns Clara a princess.

The production features a cast of 125 area children and adults and is under the artistic direction of Kathleen Senger. Principal dancers in the production will include Marisa Mack as the Sugar Plum Fairy and Patrick Turner as her Cavalier. Mack is a graduate of Spelman College and is in her second season with the Ballethnic Dance Company. Turner, a principal dancer with the Ballethnic Dance Company, is well remembered for his roles as Arabian and Russian in last year's production of "The Nutcracker."

"We are especially pleased with our effort this year and promise a professional and enchanting Nutcracker production," said Senger. "Our audiences no longer have to drive to Atlanta or Macon to see good, professional dance at affordable prices for the family."

The Fayette Ballet production will be complete with lavish sets, costumes and scenery and will include a growing Christmas tree, falling snow, the Battle of the Mice and Soldiers and a charming cast of dancers to present a magical, colorful performance. In addition, some special surprises have been added to this year's production, as well as additional choreography in the snow scene.

"The Nutcracker" will be presented Friday, Dec. 1 at 7:30 p.m., Saturday at 2 and 7:30 p.m. and Sunday at 3 p.m.

Tickets are available at Regions Bank in Peachtree City and Fayetteville and at the Fayette Ballet office. Advanced reservations may be made by calling Fayette Ballet at 770-631-4928 or 770-461-0976. Tickets are $10 and $12.50 for reserved seating and $8 for children and seniors. Patron tickets are $22.50 and include choice reserved seating, a listing in the program book and an invitation to the patrons' reception immediately following the Saturday evening performance.

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