Young area dancers part of ‘The Nutcracker’ cast for NIACC performances

To The Press

Several young Charles City dancers have been cast for the upcoming performance of “The Nutcracker,” as part of the NIACC Performing Arts & Leadership Series.

The program, to be presented by the Minnesota Ballet, will be performed at the North Iowa Community Auditorium on the NIACC campus in Mason City, on Saturday, Dec. 2, at 7 p.m., and Sunday, Dec. 3, at 3 p.m.

Auditions were held Sept. 30 for students in north Iowa to be in the dance ensemble for the classic Christmas ballet. Area dancers were invited to meet and perform for the professional dancers of the Minnesota Ballet, and those accepted were notified of their acceptance and their roles that evening.

The four dancers selected from Charles City are Addisen Lantz, Ava Van Gilder, Leah Litterer and Vivian Parrott.

In addition, there were 14 dancers from Mason City, two each from Osage and Garner, and one each from Clear Lake, Forest City, Manly, Rockwell, St. Ansgar and Tripoli.

Dancers are in four groups as part of the ballet: Ginger Cookies & Berry Pickers, Carolers, Dolls, and Newsboys & Travelers.

Auditioning students came from area dance studios including Dance Arts Centre, Dancin’ With Roxie, Dancing His Praises, Express Dance & Fitness, Independent Dancer, and Just For Kix.

Rehearsals are taking place at the North Iowa Area Community College and at Dream Barre Studio in Mason City.

According to information from NIACC, “This fresh version is the perfect holiday treat. Join young Clara as her enchanting dream, and her prized Nutcracker, come to vibrant life. Watch in wonder as she encounters fairies, princes, lumberjacks, sweets-makers, and more in this joyous tale that will delight the entire family. These local North Iowa students will perform alongside the Minnesota Ballet to bring this enchanting tale to life!”

For tickets to the show, call the NIACC Box Office at 641-422-4188. Tickets may also be purchased online at niacc.edu/boxoffice.