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Guest Column: Ballet Bringing 'Nutcracker' Back To Brandon

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By ELIZABETH PARRY

Special to the Tribune

Published: November 26, 2008

BRANDON - The exciting, rewarding celebration of Brandon Ballet's 15th season will culminate in December with the company's annual performance of "The Nutcracker." With a cast of more than 100 and beautiful choreography, costumes and set designs, the production is a magical holiday tradition.

"The Nutcracker" is a gorgeous ballet that transports you back in time with the story of a young girl who receives a very special gift - a nutcracker that saves her from the Rat King and brings her to meet the Sugar Plum Fairy in The Land of the Sweets.

The ballet's annual signature production is unique because the company holds auditions for extras to perform parts such as little rats, party scene boys, polichenelles (chocolate-covered strawberries), soldiers and angels.

The ballet has grown from its humble beginnings to include 37 company dancers and one who dances with permission from the Sarasota Ballet. It is run by a volunteer board of directors and is supported by community sponsorships and ticket sales.

This year, the ballet hired three professional dancers and produced a number of benefits, including a spring performance of "Cinderella" at the Polk Theatre in Lakeland to benefit Lakeland Regional Cancer Center.

The ballet works to keep ticket prices affordable enough for many people to see a beautiful, professional ballet.

Founded in 1993, Brandon Ballet is a nonprofit, regional ballet company that develops and promotes opportunities for aspiring dancers.

By offering a superior training program and two major performances each year, the company is keeping the arts alive in the Tampa Bay area.

'THE NUTCRACKER'

WHEN: 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Dec. 13 and 2 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. Dec. 14

WHERE: Spoto High School, 8538 Eagle Palm Drive, Riverview

COST: Tickets are $20 and $25, and available at Brandon Ballet, 161 Bloomingdale Ave., Valrico. Please call ahead for ticket sales hours.

INFO: (813) 684-4282 or go to www.brandonballet.org.

Elizabeth Parry is a Brandon Ballet mom, staff member and volunteer.

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