The Ventura County Ballet Company presented “The Nutcracker,” one of the most widely performed ballets in the world, at the Oxnard Performing Arts Center this past weekend.
“This year’s performance is very exciting, we added the Ventura College 52 piece orchestra along with the singers of Master Chorale,” said Eileen Riddle, president of the board of directors for the Ventura County Ballet Company.
The classical presentation of the famous ballet “The Nutcracker” brought giant dancing dolls to life through Princess Clara’s dream, taking you to the Snow Forest filled with Snow Fairies, and to the Kingdom of the Sweets with the Sugar Plum Fairy.
The intricate costumes and talent of the dancers made the performance. By capturing the audience’s attention with bright colors and striking backdrops, the performance came to life.
The evening began with a special touch to the performance. Bo Jaxon, the party father, read a narrative for the young children in the audience, giving the background of “The Nutcracker” for better understanding.
After the introduction, the audience leaned forward in their seats, looking at the red velvet curtain, waiting to be drawn into the classic story.
Robert E. Lawson, music director and conductor of the Ventura College Symphony and the Santa Clarita Symphony, did not disappoint either.
Peter I. Tchaikovsky’s musical masterpiece was played impeccably.
“I loved it. My favorite part of the ballet was the little fairies,” said Linda Moore, a spectator. “I love ‘The Nutcracker’ and wanted to see the Ventura Ballet Company performance.”
“The holiday classic brings something special for the children in the audience,” said Riddle.
The company pairs the professional dancers with the pre-professional dance students.
This gives young people the ability to hone their craft.
Their mission, according to Riddle, is to serve young artists and an outreach program provides free tickets to performances at the Oxnard Performing Arts Center for under-served families in the county.
(Photo by Chad Jones)
