Two of my girls performed in the New England Ballet Ensemble’s production of The Nutcracker this past weekend. It’s always wonderful to watch the many, many weeks of rehearsal come together in this beautiful ballet. It was a wonderful show and being part of it made memories that will last a lifetime. I was helping backstage during dress rehearsal so I ran out to the auditorium when I could to take photos…
The party children danced….
The battle scene
The Mouse King and his helpers…
Soldiers marching onward…
Two of my favorite toy soldiers. They’ve been friends since they were babies. 
My Snow Lyrical dancer…
The reindeer bringing the sleigh out for Clara.. There’s the choreographer, Joe Istre, with them. He comes from New York to work with the production. The weekends when Joe is in town for rehearsal are a highlight for the dancers. He has a way of using humor to bring out the best in everyone.
Here’s my Marzipan dancer, ready to go…
And again, with her adorable little lamb partner…
Here come the Gum Drops!
There’s my girl!
They add so much fun to the show!
Marzipan on stage…
and dancing with the lambs.
Could they be any cuter?
The Polichinelles dancing for Clara…
My favorite Nutcracker photo this year…
And here’s Mother Ginger. This man comes to Massachusetts from his warm retirement in Florida to appear as Mother Ginger. It’s always great to see him! Apparently it’s a tradition that Mother Ginger be a man, dressed as her…
The ballet is over and it’s time to get ready for Christmas. I can still hear the music, I hope it stays for awhile!
Enjoy Everything!
Michele
The Salem Garden 