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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Studio West Dance Theatre Celebrates 15th Anniversary of The Nutcracker with Thanksgiving Weekend ONLY Performances

[Olympia, WA] – This Thanksgiving weekend, Studio West Dance Theatre is excited to celebrate the 15th anniversary of its enchanting production of The Nutcracker at The Washington Center for the Performing Arts. For many in the community, this beloved performance marks the official start of the holiday season every year. From Tchikovsky’s mesmerizing score to the intricate choreography, this timeless ballet will transport audiences into the magical world of Clara and the Nutcracker Prince.

Studio West’s The Nutcracker will be presented over Thanksgiving weekend only, with three matinee and three evening shows:

  • Friday, November 29, 2024 – 2:00 pm and 7:00 pm
  • Saturday, November 30, 2024 – 2:00 pm and 7:00 pm
  • Sunday, December 1, 2024 – 1:00 pm and 5:00 pm

Stephanie Wood-Ennett, Co-Director of Studio West Dance Theatre, shares her thoughts on this beloved tradition: “Every year, I am reminded of the joy of firsts—the dancers’ first auditions, their first steps on stage, and for many in our audience, their first time experiencing The Nutcracker. Watching our community’s excitement as they enter the theater and seeing their faces light up in the lobby afterward is what fuels my passion. This is why I do what I do—to share my love of dance, captivate audiences with beautiful performances, and inspire the next generation to embrace this art form in a world where technology reigns,” said Wood-Ennett.

As Studio West celebrates 15 years of The Nutcracker, we are especially proud to honor the dedication and talent of our artistic staff and several cast members who have been with the production since its debut in 2009: 

  • Jeff Ennett – The Rat King and the Dog
  • Patricia Hall – Costume Director
  • Joseph DeJesus – Clara’s Dad, Herr Stahlbaum
  • Emily McMason – Clara’s Mom, Frau Stahlbaum
  • Clayton Musgrove – Party Dad
  • Erin Pattillo – ballet instructor, rehearsal coach and Clara’s Grandmother
  • Aaron Zeigler – Herr Drosselmeyer

Their commitment has been instrumental in bringing the magic of The Nutcracker to life for our community year after year!

This year’s production also features four talented Studio West dancers from local high schools stepping into the iconic roles of Sugar Plum Fairy and Cavalier, showcasing choreography that what you would see in a professional dance company.

Studio West’s The Nutcracker, will also feature a new state-of-the-art performance floor.  In mid-September, we launched a campaign to fund a new floor.  Our community rallied and within three weeks we were able to order the new floor guaranteeing our dancers would be able to experience the stability and safety the new floor will provide.  We are humbled by the generosity of our Season Sponsors and Fund-A-Floor donors!

TICKETS AND SPECIAL EVENTS
Performance tickets are priced between $20 and $36, plus a $4–$6 Washington Center service fee. For our younger patrons, Clara’s Nutcracker Party offers a unique opportunity to meet cast members one hour before each matinee. Tickets for Clara’s Nutcracker Party are $18 per child, with free admission for adult chaperones. The party includes a meet-and-greet/photo opportunity with cast members, a retelling of The Nutcracker story, a Nutcracker-themed craft, and light refreshments. Please note that those attending Clara’s Nutcracker Party will still need a ticket to the show.

The Nutcracker is more than a performance; it’s a cherished community tradition,” shares Mary Cecelia Piper, Co-Director of Studio West Dance Theatre. “Each holiday season, families join us to celebrate, and we’re so happy to welcome both returning and new faces. It is an honor to bring The Nutcracker to life each year to create a space on stage and in the studio where dancers can grow, families can gather, and holiday memories are made,” continued Piper.

Studio West Dance Theatre invites the community to join in celebrating this 15-year milestone of The Nutcracker. Tickets are available now and are selling quickly for Studio West’s beloved holiday classic.

TICKETS:  Ticket prices range from $20-$36 (plus $4-$6 WA Center fee). Available for purchase at       www.washingtoncenter.org/organizer/studio-west-dance-theatre

PHOTOS:

Photo Credit: Heather Chard Photography

  • Arabian Coffee 
  • Party Scene.jpg
  • Snow Queen.jpg
  • Snow Queen2.jpg

No Photo Credit Needed:

  • Clara and Nutcracker.jpg
  • Drosselmeyer.jpg
  • Rat King.jpg
  • The Stahlbaums.jpg

Promo Video:
https://youtu.be/1h-jcxqGA8I

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/StudioWestDanceAcademy/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/studiowestdanceacademy/

MEDIA CONTACT:
Pam Abbott
Marketing Director
Studio West Dance Theatre
CELL: 360.480.6486
pam@studiowestdanceacademy.com
www.studiowestdanceacademy.com

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About Studio West Dance Theatre:
In January of 2011, Studio West Dance Theatre (SWDT) was established in Olympia, as the performance division of Studio West Dance Academy.  SWDT’s mission is to foster a dance company that operates with the highest of standards in beauty, artistry, uniqueness, and professionalism.

SWDT presents two full-length ballets a year, participates in dance festivals, and hosts an all-hip hop show, Track City.  Through dance, Studio West Dance Theatre is proud to make a difference in our community.  With a rich history of bringing classic tales to life through dance, Studio West Dance Theatre continues to inspire and delight audiences with each production.

For more information on our season and theatre company please visit studiowestdancetheatre.com