NFM Academy for the Arts to stage ‘The Nutcracker’
For the 23rd year, North Fort Myers Academy for the Arts will stage the Tchaikovsky’s beloved ballet, “The Nutcracker,” to kick off the holiday season.
North Fort Myers Academy for the Arts Principal Andrew Miller said the performance once was held at the school which has a 500-seat theater. Sixteen years ago, the performance was moved to Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall, so the community can enjoy the performance.
Three performances still remain at the school, though, so all the staff and students can enjoy the performance. Miller said two performances will be held in-house on Tuesday, and one on Wednesday, for students.
“Most of these students may not go to a ballet on their own,” he said.
The big stage performance will take place at 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 5, at Barbara B. Mann.
“Doing it at Barbara B. Mann is so special. They get to be on the big stage. A lot of families make an evening out of it,” Miller said.
The Nutcracker will feature almost 300 students ranging from kindergarten through eighth grade. The production also includes adults in the show, including Miller as the toy maker.
“We bus kids down there for the big show on Friday. We have U-Haul trucks to load costumes and props down there,” he said. “It’s a special time for the whole school community. It gets everyone in the spirit.”
Miller said he is very proud of his teaching staff, as it goes beyond the two dance teachers who do a fantastic job directing and choreographing the show.
“It’s a team effort. It’s the whole art department – teachers and parent volunteers,” he said.
The Nutcracker, which has lavish costumes for the dancers tells the story of Clara, a young girl transported into a fantastical dream full of dancing snowflakes, the Sugar Plum Fairy, and an army of toy soldiers.
Tickets can be purchased at https://www.bbmannpah.com/events with price ranging from $22-$45. A portion of the proceeds will benefit the North Fort Myers Academy for the Arts.
“It’s a tradition,” Millers said. “The community does come out to support. It’s not just our school.”
Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall is 13350 FSW Parkway, Fort Myers.
To reach MEGHAN BRADBURY, please email news@breezenewspapers.com