Disclaimer: We attended the opening night of “The Art Deco Nutcracker” as guests of the event in 2018 and look forward to attending again this holiday season.
A&A Ballet’s “The Art Deco Nutcracker” is a family-friendly performance is set in 1920’s America featuring Tchaikovsky’s beloved score, as a fresh, yet traditional take on the beloved holiday favorite with the costume set design and storylines inspired by the unique sophistication of the Art Deco era.
This year’s production features award-winning rhythmic dancers, stunning/projected set designs, added scenes, and characters, as well as choreography by Alexei Kremnev – former artistic director at The Joffrey who took home the outstanding choreography award at the 2021 Youth American Grand Prix!
The Sugar Plum Fairy, Mother Ginger, and the Nutcracker Prince will all be on stage to tell the tale.
As Nutcracker and ballet performances can typically be a bit long for youngsters, this one has the right amount of energy and fun for the entire family!
“After the past year has deeply impacted dance, we look forward to showcasing A&A BALLET’s talent and performing on stage at Athanaeum Theatre for the first time, while bringing families together to enjoy a holiday tradition in Chicago,” said Artistic Director Alexei Kremnev.
Roles include classics such as the Sugar Plum Fairy performed by Trinity Santoroand Bridget Fox, Clara by Emma Parnell, the Nutcracker Prince by Aiden Moss, and Drosselmeyer by Alexei Kremnev, and Mice and Soldiers. In addition to the art deco twist, Kremnev’s choreography also has some added style with additional character roles that are not typically featured in this storyline. Adding to the production’s unique intrigue, a scene in Act ll is inspired by the legendary Loie Fuller, a Chicago native, and pioneer of modern dance, along with a filled-out Grand Pas ll, featuring three Cavaliers performing alongside the Sugar Plum Fairy, which is typically performed by one. The Mother Ginger scene will also feature an award-winning team of rhythmic gymnasts.
The Art Deco theme is brought to life with set designs by production designer Gabriel Brandon-Hanson, who holds a background in high fashion. Recently profiled in Vogue, Brandon-Hanson brings his finely tuned aesthetic sense to the dance world; Imaginativeprojections for all scenes have been designed and created in France as backdrops. Additional animated projections provide a second visual layer which creates a deep HD effect for each scene. Lastly, lighting by Chicago designer Collin Helou and Wardrobe by Laura Skarich.
Following the City of Chicago guidelines, guests in attendance are required to wear face coverings.