Let's Get Crackin'

As we draw nearer to the holiday season, you might be interested in taking your family to see a classic ballet performance of The Nutcracker. Alas, there are many versions of The Nutcracker story out there. Wheatland Dance Theater, a non-profit dance company based in Plainfield, is introducing a new twist to the story. At least it would appear to be a new twist to the average American.

Wheatland Dance Theater’s Artistic and Executive Directors, Askar Alimbetov and Corinne Alimbetova, do not see this “new” version as a twist at all. In fact, this is how The Nutcracker story was commonly told in their native Kazakhstan and Switzerland. Inspired by their Asian and European traditions, they have long awaited to produce a Nutcracker show that takes the story back to its roots. In 2013, the Alimbetovs retired from professional dancing and opened their own dance studio, Plainfield Dance Academy. This December, the Alimbetovs will debut their first Nutcracker production, based on their traditional interpretation, as well as showcase the talents of 70 students from Plainfield Dance Academy.

This version is nothing less than spectacular. During the opening, you will experience the enchanting party at the Stahlbaums’ home on Christmas Eve. The party scene flows with such happiness, the audience will find themselves reminiscing on personal moments of joy with close family and friends. After saying goodbye to the guests and getting ready for bed, Clara sneaks back into the party room to find her gift from Uncle Drosselmeyer, a beloved Nutcracker. Under the Nutcracker’s watchful eyes, she falls into a deep sleep and begins a magical dream. Young Clara transforms into a beautiful, graceful dancer and the Nutcracker comes to life. Clara truly transforms, from an 11-year-old dancer to Joanna Priwieziencew, a professional ballerina currently dancing with the Cairo Opera House in Egypt. The Nutcracker also transforms from a wooden toy into Amr Farouk, a principal dancer with Cairo Opera House in Egypt. The two battle the evil Mouse King, and then set out on a quest to find the Golden Nut, which has the magical powers to turn the Nutcracker back into a real Prince.

Between Askar and Corinne, they have 28 years of professional dancing experience. Their professional bios are quite impressive, and can be found on their school website, www.plainfielddanceacademy.com. After completing their successful professional careers, the Alimbetovs are now ready to prove their talents as choreographers, artists and directors. Their choreography in The Nutcracker is stunning - full of life, energy, grace and a few surprises. The costumes are beautiful, and most of them have been designed by Corinne Alimbetova. The headpieces are also original works of art, designed specifically for this Nutcracker production. The props are as precise as a Swiss watch. Corinne’s father, Peter Emmenegger, traveled from Switzerland to design and build the doll boxes, sleigh, rifles, and (surprise!) a flying carpet.

This production is sure to delight audience members of all ages. Two performances will be held at Bolingbrook High School, 365 Raider Way, Bolingbrook. Showtimes are Saturday, December 13th at 7:00 p.m. and Sunday, December 14th at 3:00 p.m.. Tickets can be purchased through Wheatland Dance Theater’s website, www.wheatlanddancetheater.com.

Wheatland Dance Theater is a non-profit organization that shares the passion, dedication and artistry of dance with the community through professional level performances, professional workshops, lecture demonstrations, collaboration with other non-profit organizations and community involvement.