Sugar Plum Fairies Grace Enchanted Stage

Vonda Atchley
The Signal
Feel the magic of Christmas as sugar plum fairies dance in your head when the Kennedy Dance Theatre performs The Nutcracker at the University of Houston-Clear Lake’s Bayou Theater in three exclusive shows at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m., Dec. 15, then again at 2 p.m., Dec. 16.

The family-friendly atmosphere is intended to make attendees feel comfortable while enjoying an old time favorite ballet.

“Our Nutcracker performance is truly magical because we work very hard to make this a show that everyone in the family can enjoy” said Mary Lee Kennedy, director of Kennedy Dance Theatre. “Even our students as young as two years old love all the excitement.”

The dancers have new sets and backdrops for their performances this year.

“We now have a growing tree, a fog machine, and a real wooden sleigh will turn the theater into a winter wonderland as the snow scene unveils,” said Pam Urban, office manager for the Kennedy Theatre.

Kennedy said they chose the Bayou Theater because it is centrally located and has a very nice stage to present the ballet. This is the company’s fourth year to perform at UHCL.

“Most of our dancers are local students; the dancers start at age five with choreography that is playful, festive and comes to live on stage,” Kennedy said. “The Clear Lake campus is a great venue for these dancers and the stage provides a great place for this performance.”

Along with the performance, attendees will also have a chance to do some Christmas shopping. Clara’s Closet Christmas Market will be set up before and after the performances.

Choreographed by Milena Leben, The Kennedy Theatre’s Nutcracker is sure to help bring the holiday season close to home and set the mood for the holiday spirit.

The show is open to the public. Student discounts are not available but advance tickets can be purchased for $15 through the Kennedy Dance Theatre by contacting them at 281-480-8441 or tickets may be purchased at the door for $20.