Almost Cracked - BHS Advanced Dance Holiday Show Opens Tonight

A spirited , choreography and costumes await those who see Almost Cracked, the Advanced Dance Show, December 8-10.  The magic that happens between The Lands of Snow and Sweets features 30 some dancers from various advanced dance classes and the choreography of students, alumni, dance instructors and other professionals.     

Conceived as a prequel to The Nutcracker Suite, a loose storyline ties the 23 different dance numbers together.  Varied dance and choreographic styles keep the show fresh and lively.  Colorful costumes, sets and lights punch up the already strong visuals. The main characters include the Nutcracker Doll, a beautiful Snow Queen, and a Mouse King bent on foiling “the plot”.  

What that plot is, exactly, isn’t quite clear, but what is clear is that is an uplifting, holiday-themed celebration of dance and music, a chance to see the beauty and vitality of youth in motion and a tremendous organizational success, engaging the efforts of many talented individuals to create an enjoyable evening of holiday entertainment.

With main production elements in place, the dynamic BHS Theater Artistic Director and Advanced Dance Instructor Christine Mani zeros in on final details.  Hair needs to look “shellacked. If it looks soft and supple, it is wrong.”  The dancers listen.  Of emotional content in facial expressions she stresses, “Know the faces of your dance before dress rehearsal.”  Firmly she encourages, “It can be a confident show.  Please take more time” with preparations.  Asked if they will be ready by showtime, Mrs. Mani says with a nod and a twinkle in her eye, “They will be.”   

Presented by Musical Sensations and Panther Productions,  show times are 6 PM December 8, and 7 PM December 9 and 10.  General Admission $10,  $8 for Students with ID, and $2 off for advanced ticket purchases.  For tickets or information call 707-751-2338.