A Magical Holiday Tradition Returned: Wainwright Dance Academy Presents A Reimagined Nutcracker
- Lorna Hamilton
- 5 days ago
- 2 min read
A beloved holiday favourite returned to the stage at the Lakeland College Alumni Theatre on December 13 as Wainwright Dance Academy delighted audiences with a newly imagined presentation of The Nutcracker. Joined by talented guest performers from the Turtleford School of Dance, the academy offered a production that respected the ballet’s timeless charm while introducing a fresh and creative storyline that brought new life to a cherished seasonal tradition.
For generations, The Nutcracker has been synonymous with the holiday season, drawing families year after year with its familiar music, graceful dancing, and magical atmosphere. This year’s performance honoured those long-standing expectations while adding an inventive twist that surprised and captivated audiences. At the heart of the reimagined story were The Nutcracker Princess, portrayed by Emma Poulin, and The Sugar Plum Princess, danced by Kinley Smyl. Presented as royal sisters, their journey of courage, compassion, and shared magic reshaped the classic tale while maintaining its sense of wonder.
The production retained the warmth and enchantment audiences expect, from the elegance of the Waltz of the Flowers to the shimmering beauty of the Snowflake Forest. Each scene was thoughtfully crafted by the dancers and creative team to reflect both the spirit of the holidays and the excitement of a new narrative approach. The result was a performance that felt both comfortably familiar and refreshingly original.
The artistic team at Wainwright Dance Academy expressed pride in the dancers and enthusiasm for sharing this new vision with the community, noting that the production was designed to balance tradition with innovation. Their goal was to create a show that would appeal to families who return to The Nutcracker each year, as well as to newcomers experiencing the magic for the first time.
Featuring performers of all ages, from young dancers portraying toy soldiers to seasoned senior students, the production showcased the depth of talent within the academy. The collaboration with the Turtleford School of Dance further enriched the performance, adding to the artistry and scale of the show. The result was a memorable holiday presentation that lived up to its promise of being one of the most impressive productions yet.
For audience members, the evening offered an opportunity to revisit treasured memories or begin new holiday traditions, making this reimagined Nutcracker a standout celebration of the season.