Bringing Ballet to Life with Purpose: The Nutcracker
In December 2022, I took on the remarkable challenge of Producing, Choreographing, and Performing in a special new production of The Nutcracker to celebrate the 10th anniversary of En Avant Ballet School in Morelia, Michoacán, Mexico. This grand production was a labor of love, featuring over 200 performers ranging from young children to seasoned dancers. It was a privilege to host renowned Principal Dancers Mayuko Nihei and Argenis Montalvo from The National Ballet of Mexico, adding an extra layer of prestige and artistry to the event.
To enhance the magic, the production was accompanied by live orchestral music, performed by the Symphonic Orchestra of the State of Michoacán, under the baton of the esteemed Maestro Juan Tucán, one of Mexico’s most prominent conductors. The performances took place at Theatre Morelos, the city’s largest and most prestigious venue, with both a matinee and an evening show playing to completely full houses.
Beyond the artistic achievement, this production had a deeper purpose—it was an opportunity to give back. Through ticket sales and fundraising efforts, The Nutcracker successfully raised MX$ 50,000.00 (Fifty Thousand Mexican Pesos) for the Mexican Red Cross, reinforcing my belief that art can be a powerful vehicle for positive change. During the event, a check was presented on stage to the president of the Morelia delegation of the organization, marking a significant moment of community support.
One of the most personally meaningful aspects of this production was performing in my all-time favourite role — Mother Ginger. It was a true joy to bring this beloved character to life and create unforgettable memories for both the performers and the audience.
A Whimsical Journey: La Fille Mal Gardée
Following the success of The Nutcracker, I took the stage once again in another beloved classic—La Fille Mal Gardée (The Wayward Daughter). This lighthearted, comedic ballet is full of charm, humour, and intricate choreography, and I had the opportunity to play the hilarious Widow Simone, a fan-favourite role filled with delightful comedic moments, including the famous clog dance.
The production was a collaborative effort between En Avant Ballet School and its dedicated director, Vero Calderon, featuring a cast of over 100 performers, ranging from ages 3 to 25. It was an incredible honor to welcome Norman Barrios, Principal Dancer of the National Ballet of Guatemala, who brought exceptional talent and artistry to the stage.
Once again, these performances were not just about entertainment but about giving back. Through ticket sales and fundraising efforts, La Fille Mal Gardée successfully raised MX$ 20,000.00 (Twenty Thousand Mexican Pesos) for the Mexican Red Cross, reinforcing the commitment to using the arts to support meaningful causes.
For me, this experience was not just about performance but about the joy of sharing dance, creating unforgettable moments on stage, and making a real impact through artistic expression.
The Power of Art and Giving Back
Both productions—The Nutcracker and La Fille Mal Gardée—served as powerful reminders of the transformative power of dance. Together, they raised MX$ 70,000.00 for the Mexican Red Cross, showcasing how the arts can inspire, unite communities, and create tangible positive change.
For me, these performances were more than just productions—they were a celebration of creativity, collaboration, and the ability of the arts to bring people together for a greater purpose.
