'Nutcracker' Comes To Washington Featuring Local Twist
WASHINGTON(WJZ)--For many, seeing the Nutcracker is an annual holiday tradition.
In Washington, D.C, the ballet is unique, incorporating American history into the performance.
This year, WJZ's own Jessica Kartalija had a special opportunity to play a guest role.
With just minutes before curtain Jessica heads backstage to get ready for the role Merry Widow. Widow is the woman who comes to the party where Clara receives her Nutcracker.
Costume on, hair styled, the audience gets seated for a special Capital City performance.
"This nutcracker is tailored to be Washington, D.C. American history so a lot of people feel like they are a part of it. Even when they are not dancing, when they see how this story unfolds on stage, they feel like they are a part of it, because it is very Washingtonian, very patriotic," said Luis R. Torres, of the Washingtonm Ballet.
The performance is set in Georgetown in 1882.
Merry Widow is suppose to look sad, but a little flirtatious.
The Nutcracker is based on George Washington, the Rat King is George III.
Not only are the characters based on American History, so are the costumes, sets and props. The second act features the cherry blossoms in full bloom along the Potomac.
More than 500 children are a part of the performance. Little dancers just like Jess, fortunate to have a childhood dream come true.
The Washington Ballet's Nutcracker is performed at the Warner Theater, and runs through December 27th.
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