Dancing Their Way In

A chance to take part in an all local production of the Nutcracker this winter had children from all over Southeastern Ohio on their toes Saturday morning.

Ballet dancers from ages 4-18 waited nervously for a chance to show their skills to judges for a part in the East Central Ohio Dance Theater’s performance.

“Today is just a basic try-out,” explained President of the East Central Ohio Dance Theater Board Mark Smith. “The instructors go in and take them through basic moves. Different forms of ballet so that we can get an idea of their ability.”

In past years the Moscow Ballet has come in to do the Nutcracker performance, but this year with the help of a new director it’s all local.

“We have a new artistic director. His name is Anton Engelbrecht. He’s from South Africa. He’s our new artistic director for the Nutcracker, explained Smith. “He’s also going to stay in Zanesville and conduct classes for the area.”

The Nutcracker performance takes place at Secrest Auditorium December 19th and 20th.