photo by Cheryl Mann

Christopher Wheeldon’s “The Nutcracker” resembles a fan favorite on Broadway.

In this re-imagined version of a timeless classic, a poor girl named Marie (Amanda Assucena) dreams of a perfect World’s Fair. Following a humble yet joyous Christmas party (in the small home she shares with her widow mom and brother), Marie falls fast asleep and is whisked away to a wonderful place where countries come together and showcase the appeal of their homeland. The Great Impresario of the Fair (Miguel Angel Blanco) guided Marie and his apprentice Peter (Alberto Velazquez) throughout the breathtaking vision. However, the biggest surprise came for the Great Impresario himself when he fell in love with the Queen of the Fair (Victoria Jaiani) and Marie’s mother in real life.

photo by Cheryl Mann

photo by Cheryl Mann

Each scene reminds me of a gorgeous painting come to life. The dancers were exceptional in their roles in reality and the dream world. The Arabian, Spanish, Venetian Masked and Snow, and Nut dancer’s choreography are the ones to highly anticipate. The snow scene alone made the audience feel like we had walked into our very own dream… that we wanted to last forever.

The Joffrey Ballet outdid themselves when it came to the spectacular backdrop, props and wardrobe. It was simply exquisite. From the detailed house interior to the lighted World’s Fair, it’s impossible not to be blown away by the stage! I believe that the scenery even surpassed Lyric Opera‘s set in past years.

photo by Cheryl Mann

Christopher Wheeldon’s “The Nutcracker” runs thru December 30th, 2017 at the Auditorium Theatre in Chicago.

* A Special Thanks to The Silverman Group for allowing BTSCelebs to review the ballet*