Clarksville, Tennessee – On the afternoon of Sunday, December 11, 2022, the Gateway Chamber Orchestra performed its own version of “The Nutcracker” to a packed audience at Austin Peay State University’s Mabrey Concert Hall.
“Tonight, we had The Gateway Chamber Orchestra’s interpretation of The Nutcracker, playing Tchaikovsky’s music and Duke Ellington’s score. This year we also introduced a salsa version, with dancers from three companies,” said the orchestra. Interim Executive Director Summer Fuchs said.
Dance Theater of Harlem’s Ingrid Silva and Dylan Santos played the roles of the Sugar Plum Fairy and Cavalier.
“Tonight was really special. It was the first time I had two live orchestras playing jazz and classical music,” says Silva. “I liked it.”
Santos commented: So it was a new way of dancing in front of this audience. I was excited. good. “
Vinicas Lima had a new role for Cuban Sugar, a salsa number that included both an orchestra and a jazz band. Lima belongs to Ballet West.
“It was interesting to have the opportunity to play such famous music in a different way, including salsa. I was able to be both masculine and feminine while performing. Sugar Plum or Sugar Rum Fairy,” Lima said.
Nashville Ballet dancer Mackenzie Kenyon is back to play the role of Sugar Rum Cherry.
“I had so much fun here tonight. I always love coming to Clarksville. This is my second time here,” exclaimed Kenyon. “It’s so much fun to hear classical music side by side with the jazzy Duke Ellington version of your role. I loved it.”
Gregory Wolinek, conductor of the Gateway Chamber Orchestra, explains how this version of the Nutcracker came to be. I was asked to make a Nutcracker here in Clarksville.Nashville already had a beautiful Nutcracker. So until I came up with my own spin, I didn’t want to pursue it. ”
“When we did the children’s concert, we knew this was what we needed to do. So I’m looking forward to seeing how this story unfolds over the years to come.” can enjoy it, but also look forward to something new each year,” said Wolynec.
“This year we added live dance. We had some amazing kids from Classic Steps II. Ingrid was on board, not only Grand Pas, but the big Sugar Plum Fairy dance. And, of course, Cuban Sugar choreography.” There was also the world premiere of , where we introduced a new character,” says Wolynec.
“The new characters were great. Clearly, the audience loved it. Clearly, the orchestra loved it. Clearly, the jazz band loved it. Bringing everyone together.” ‘, said Wolynec.
The audience was mesmerized by the breathtaking performance. It was a magical night. If you weren’t able to attend, please come see us again next year. It’s still a developing project. This is something you really don’t want to miss.
Then there was the Sugar Plum Fairy Party. Those who paid an extra fee were able to have their photo taken with the Sugar Plum Fairy and the other dancers, while Sugar Cookies from Thistle Sweets or Red His Velvet Cookies were served at The Nutcracker Soldier’s Christmas His Gifted to children along with ornaments.
“We did this for the first time last year. It was a big hit. So we did it again this year,” Flux said. “Everyone had fun. It was a complete success.”
The Gateway Chamber Orchestra’s next performances are at La Pasión on March 18th and 19th.
Nutcracker photo gallery
Sugar Plum Fairy Party Photo Gallery
About Gateway Chamber Orchestra
The Gateway Chamber Orchestra (GCO) is a nationally recognized cultural institution committed to enriching lives through innovative concerts, distinctive recordings and inspiring educational programs. The Clarksville-based symphony, conducted by Gregory Wolinek, will provide audiences with an exceptional and engaging concert experience at his Mabury Concert Hall on the campus of Austin Pea State University in Clarksville.
For more information, call 931.444.6240 or visit www.gatewaychamberorchestra.com.
