This holiday season, the Brooklyn Ballet presents a reimagined version of the classic “The Nutcracker,” showcasing a unique blend of the borough’s diverse culture and traditions. Running from December 6 to 14, 2023, at the Theater at City Tech, this production aims to offer audiences an engaging holiday experience infused with the vibrant tapestry of Brooklyn.
Inside the company’s rehearsal studio, the nostalgic melodies of Tchaikovsky fill the air while dancers hone their skills. Among them is Tristan Grannum, the ballet’s Director of Community Outreach, who emphasizes the importance of evolving the art form. “I adore classical ballet, but classical ballet is not the only style that exists,” he stated. Grannum advocates for a more inclusive representation in ballet, noting that while many productions focus on classical styles, it’s vital to explore different cultural expressions.
Grannum’s journey into the world of dance began with a childhood field trip to a public school in Bushwick, where he discovered his passion. “That was the moment where I was like, ‘I can do this on stage? I can dance for people? I can get paid to do this?’” he reflected. Now, he takes on the role of the Snow King, performing alongside Miku Kawamura, a dancer he has admired for years. “Nowhere else can have this, only Brooklyn,” Kawamura remarked, highlighting the rich cultural influences that shape this modern rendition of “The Nutcracker.”
This year’s performance is noted for being one of the city’s most diverse interpretations of the classic. The production integrates various cultural elements, including Native American hoop dance, Middle Eastern belly dance, and street styles influenced by Brooklyn’s unique identity. Artistic director and founder Lynn Parkerson elaborated on the innovative approach, stating, “We use that beautiful music, but we also make some space for flamenco castanets, an accordion, and the Ukrainian Hopak.”
Parkerson describes “The Brooklyn Nutcracker” as a bridge between tradition and innovation. “This production is a new way to present ballet while keeping the tradition beautifully alive and welcoming others into that world,” she said. Through this vision, the Brooklyn Ballet aims to inspire a new generation of dancers while celebrating the community’s rich heritage.
Grannum’s commitment to outreach is evident in the company’s Elevate program, which provides arts education to students who may not have access to ballet. “I am trying to give back to the students that never had access to arts education,” he explained, emphasizing the importance of making ballet more diverse. The program includes classroom instruction, subsidized performance tickets, and scholarships to expand opportunities for young dancers.
Parkerson echoed Grannum’s sentiments, recalling her own experience with public school outreach programs. “It changed my life. That’s why I’m doing what I’m doing,” she said. She believes that exposure to professional dancers can ignite a passion for the art form in young people.
As “The Brooklyn Nutcracker” prepares to take the stage, audiences can anticipate a performance that not only celebrates the holiday spirit but also reflects the dynamic cultural landscape of Brooklyn. This unique adaptation promises to be a memorable experience for families and dance enthusiasts alike.
