The Magic of Dance Creation for The Nutcracker - Amarillo Dreamin’
Behind the Scenes of Choreography: The Magic of Dance Creation for The Nutcracker - Amarillo Dreamin’
When we decided to create The Nutcracker - Amarillo Dreamin’, we knew we weren’t just putting on a show—we were building an entirely new production from the ground up. Every scene, every costume, every dance move has been lovingly crafted to tell a story that combines the timeless charm of The Nutcracker with the vibrant spirit of Amarillo.
Here’s a behind-the-scenes look at how we brought this dream to life:
1. Building a New Vision
Our journey began with a question: What would The Nutcracker look like if it were set in Amarillo? From there, we reimagined the classic tale, weaving in local landmarks like Cadillac Ranch and The American Quarter Horse Association, as well as iconic Amarillo traditions.
Claire’s dream became more than a story—it became a celebration of our community, blending the familiar with the fantastical in a way that feels truly unique to Amarillo.
2. Choosing Music That Matches the Vision
While Tchaikovsky’s original score is undeniably magical, we wanted to incorporate modern elements that reflect our Amarillo twist. From upbeat, entertaining numbers for Cadillac Ranch to traditional melodies with a local flair, each piece of music was carefully selected to complement the story we’re telling.
Every note inspires movement, creating a seamless blend of classic and contemporary that brings Claire’s dream to life.
3. Creating the Choreography
Starting with a blank slate, our team of choreographers got to work crafting movements that are as unique as the story itself. Every scene is designed with intention:
Cadillac Ranch: A playful, high-energy piece that captures the vibrancy of this iconic landmark.
The Sod Poodles: A fun, larger-than-life dance that brings humor and charm to the production.
The Angels: A breathtakingly beautiful ballet sequence that ushers the audience into Act 2 with grace and wonder.
This production isn’t about replicating steps from previous versions—it’s about creating something entirely new, tailored to our vision and our performers.
4. Rehearsals: Bringing the Vision to Life
Rehearsals for The Nutcracker - Amarillo Dreamin’ are where the magic really begins to take shape. Our studio buzzes with energy as dancers work tirelessly to master their steps and embody their characters.
These sessions aren’t just about perfecting technique—they’re about understanding the story behind each movement. Whether it’s the joyful playfulness of Cadillac Ranch or the elegance of the angels, every dancer becomes a storyteller, bringing Claire’s dream to life.
5. Costumes and Final Touches
Costuming for this production has been a labor of love, combining traditional Nutcracker elements with unique Amarillo-inspired designs. From sparkling angel wings to boots that nod to our Western roots, every piece has been thoughtfully created to enhance the story.
The final touches—like lighting, props, and staging—pull everything together, ensuring every moment feels as magical as Claire’s dream itself.
Why This Production is Special
The Nutcracker - Amarillo Dreamin’ is more than just a performance—it’s a tribute to our community. Built entirely from the ground up, this production reflects the creativity, hard work, and passion of everyone involved, from the choreographers and dancers to the families who have supported us every step of the way.
This isn’t just The Nutcracker you’ve seen before. It’s a fresh, vibrant take on a beloved classic, filled with surprises and heart. We can’t wait for you to experience the magic with us!
Join Us for the Dream!
Mark your calendars and join us for this unforgettable journey through Claire’s dream, where tradition meets the spirit of Amarillo.
Show Dates: December 8th, 2:00 PM & 6:00 PM
Location: The Globe News Center