Special to 1812Blockhouse
Richland Academy of the Arts is excited to present its ninth annual production of The Nutcracker Ballet, hosted at the Renaissance Theatre on Saturday, December 7 at 7:30 PM and Sunday, December 8th at 2:30 PM as part of the Spotlight Series. This beloved holiday classic, perfect for all ages, weaves together Tchaikovsky’s enchanting score, breathtaking fairytale scenery, and vibrant theatrical staging for an unforgettable seasonal tradition.
Each year, this production brings together a community of young dancers from across Richland County and beyond, making it a powerful experience for everyone involved.
For high school senior Lily Feasel, The Nutcracker holds a special place in her heart. “Being in The Nutcracker Ballet has been an amazing experience,” Lily shared. “It’s not just about the dancing but the sense of community and the friendships I’ve built along the way. Performing as a high school senior feels especially meaningful because it’s a culmination of years of hard work and dedication. It’s a chance to showcase my growth and passion for ballet, and it’s a memory I’ll cherish forever.”
Eighth-grader Isabelle Ruhl will step into the iconic role of Young Clara this year, a dream come true for the young dancer.
“Being Clara in The Nutcracker is really special to me because it makes me feel like all of my hard work has paid off, and I just really enjoy the role,” Isabelle explained.
Her mother, Chelsey Ault, expressed her own excitement, saying, “I am just really happy and proud of her, and I know she’s going to be great!”
This year’s cast features accomplished young dancers from area schools, including Eva Rietschlin (Junior) and Sophia Sandwall (Sophomore) from Ontario High School; Nora Ball (Sophomore) and Kaylie Yetzer (Freshman) from Lexington High School; Olivia Laux (Junior) from St. Peter’s High School; Jaylee Black (8th Grade) from Madison Jr. High School; Ava Irwin (Junior) from Mansfield Christian School; Piper Hilterman (Freshman) from Classical Conversations Homeschool Program; and guest dancer Matthew Piper as the Nutcracker Prince.
The Nutcracker follows Clara as she embarks on a magical adventure after receiving a mysterious Nutcracker doll on Christmas Eve. Her journey unfolds in the Land of Snow and the Kingdom of Sweets, where she is celebrated with dazzling performances that bring the beauty and power of classical dance to life.
Tickets are available through the Renaissance Theatre Box Office at 419-522-2726 or online at rentickets.org.
For more information about Richland Academy of the Arts’ programs, call 419-522-8224 or visit www.richlandacademy.com. Richland Academy, located at the corner of 4th and Walnut Streets and founded in 1991, provides a place “where anyone can explore the artist within” and is proudly supported by the Ohio Arts Council.
For those interested in supporting arts events like The Nutcracker at the Renaissance Theatre, please reach out to Maddie Penwell, Director of Development, to learn more about sponsorship opportunities.
Source, Image: Renaissance Performing Arts Association
