Three students from the British School of Ballet in Hoosick Falls auditioned for parts in the Christmas ballet The Nutcracker. All the girls received parts. Over 200 students from different ballet schools auditioned, and about 40 students were chosen.
Eleven year old Emma Tifft of Bennington, VT, is an angel. Nine year old Kiana Tifft of Bennington is a Polichinello, and twelve year old Molly Ruebel of Berlin is a mouse.
All three girls have danced in the Nutcracker production before. “They get very excited when the time comes for dress rehearsals and performances. It is a wonderful experience for them,” said Miss Olivia. “One year I had 40 students audition and every one of them received parts.” This is the 31st year that Miss Olivia’s students have danced in the Nutcracker.
This production is put on by the Albany Berkshire Ballet Company. Madeline Culpo is the Artistic Director and owner of the Cantarella Dance Schools. Miss Olivia’s students are dancing in performances in Pittsfield, MA, in the elegantly restored Colonial Theatre. Performances are Friday and Saturday, December 12 and 13, at 3 and 7:30 pm. The ballet company will also be performing in several other cities and states.
“It is the best production of the Nutcracker,” Miss Olivia said. “The scenery and the costumes are so beautiful, and the Christmas tree that grows is like magic. The children dance like little professionals.”
If you would like more information on the performances or information on dance classes, ballet, Irish step dance or gymnastics, please call 518-686-9440.