Set in 1950s Harlem, the “Chocolate Nutcracker” gives a slightly different spin on the classic ballet most people have seen during the holiday season.
Written in 1994 by dancer and choreographer LaVerne Reed, “Chocolate Nutcracker” tells the same tale of a young girl whisked on a journey into distant lands. But there’s a twist – the show incorporates jazz, hip-hop, swing, tap and contemporary modern dance.
Photo courtesy of Chocolate NutcrackerJasmine Burton, who plays Claire in the “Chocolate Nutcracker,” rehearses Act I of the play alongside her mother, Tonya Burton.The cast also includes Burton’s mother, Tonya Burton, who, not surprisingly, plays Claire’s mother. No strangers to the stage, both mother and daughter started dancing at young ages and enjoy working with one another.
“We have a good connection,” Tonya Burton said.
In addition to supporting her daughter’s dance career, Tonya Burton is a dance instructor at Leap of Faith Christian Dance Studio.
Assistant Director and Head Choreographer Monica Richardson has been supervising the cast during their two months of practice before the Nov. 15 show at Veterans Memorial.
“It’s a community project,” Richardson said. “All the talent comes from the Columbus area.”
The performance gives children a step forward in their young dancing careers, Richardson said.
“The kids are able to work with choreographers from all around,” she said. “It’s really a great opportunity because they are young professionals in the making, and just to have that community support is nice.”
The Chocolate Nutcracker will be performed 7:30 p.m. on Nov. 15 at Veteran’s Memorial. Tickets are $27-47. For tickets or for more information, call 614-915-8175.
Jamila Williams can be reached at [email protected].
