Amherst Teens Will Perform in 'The Nutcracker' This Month

Friday, Nov. 29 at 7:30 p.m. is the opening performance for Amherst’s Aislinn Evans in “The Nutcracker” as part of the 2013-14 Citizens Bank Performing Arts Series at The Palace Theatre.  Dancers from Southern New Hampshire Dance Theater bring us on the magical journey, accompanied by a live orchestra. “The Nutcracker” continues through Sunday, Dec. 1.

Evans is an 18-year-old ballet dancer from Souhegan High School. She has been with SNHDT for four years and this year she will perform as The Snow Queen, Arabian Soloist and will also appear as a Flower in Waltz of the Flowers and in the Dance of the Mirlitons in Act 2. In regard to her dance career, she says, “I always get a certain fulfillment from dance that I can’t get anywhere else.”

Evans will share the stage with two Amherst Middle School students. Kaitlin Griffin, 13, will appear as an elf in Act 1 and a Candy Cane in Act 2, while 13-year-old, Christine Liu will appear as an Elf in Act I and in the Arabian Dance in Act 2. This version of “The Nutcracker” features the only live orchestra in the state, conducted by Grammy Award-winner John McLaughlin Williams.

“The Nutcracker”, set in 19th Century Germany, this classic ballet begins with a charming Christmas party where their mysterious godfather, Herr Drosselmeyer gives Clara a magical toy, a Nutcracker that takes her on an unforgettable journey.

Make plans now to go see Evans, Griffin and Liu perform this timeless classic.  Tickets for “The Nutcracker” are available by calling (603) 668-5588, visit online at www.palacetheatre.org, or in person at the Palace Theatre Box office. Tickets range from $15-$45. The Palace Theatre is located at 80 Hanover Street, Manchester, NH 03101.