Drawing on Nimbus Dance Works’ strong local ties and the company’s mission to integrate top-caliber dance directly into the community, Nimbus’ Nutcracker utilizes a cast comprised of top professional dancers as well as members of the community, including youth from Nimbus’ programs in Newark and in the Jersey City Public Schools, as it is performed each year in Jersey City and Newark. First selections were performed in 2010, and the complete production will be unveiled over a period of three years. Nutcracker has been created by a collaborative team including Samuel Pott (choreographer, Artistic Director, Nimbus Dance Works), Alysia Souder (librettist/playwright), Irene Borngraeber (scenic designer), and Allison Duncil (costume designer). Though containing elements of the original E.T.A Hoffman folktale and set to Tchaikovsky’s renowned orchestral score, Nimbus’ Nutcracker presents an adapted narrative set in a contemporary urban
environment.
Running parallel to the storyline, to the artistic quality, and to the design of Nutcracker are the cast and crew of community members who come together to present this production. Envisioned as a vehicle for bringing people together from all ages, and all strata of the Jersey City and Newark communities, Nimbus’ Nutcracker provides educational opportunities for aspiring dancers, community service opportunities to adults looking to volunteer, and community involvement opportunities for those looking to get involved with local cultural life.