This is a season for magic and dreams, for family and friends, and for hopes and memories. My daughter and I began our own tradition this year and went to see The Nutcracker Ballet-each of us for our first time. Even before we took our seats we felt the spirit of Christmas with the decorations, the gingerbread cookies for sale, the wonderful keepsakes available, and the friendly and helpful staff.
After we did finally take our seats and the lights dimmed and the curtains rose we were immediately enthralled. The set was breathtakingly detailed, the music was beautiful and we couldn't take our eyes off of the dancers. I didn't actually read up on the story before we went, I didn't even think about it until I was there. I was a bit nervous I wouldn't be able to follow it and understand what was happening but I needn't have worried. I was able to follow it perfectly. And even my brand-new 5-year old daughter was so mesmerized by the dancing that she noticed things I didn't expect her to, all the way down to asking me if I saw the silly mice fall down and the guy's feet that went "whoo-whoo" (her words).
My absolute favorite moments, though, were the little laughs that were thrown in at the right moments. The beauty and integrity of the show was not affected, but we were offered a bit of humor that left no doubt that this was going to be a show to remember. During one of the later scenes, my daughter was giggling at the "huge lady" (Mother Ginger) dancing. Little did she know that it was even better for the adults that recognized the dances.
Don't worry, many of the shows are sold out but there are still plenty more to see! You can find the dates and times still available, as well as purchase tickets, at The Colorado Ballet website. This is definitely an outing that is going to become a tradition!
