The first part many young dancers dream of playing onstage is the role of Clara in The Nutcracker Ballet. In the classic holiday story, Clara is a young girl who receives a magical toy Nutcracker for Christmas. As she falls asleep on Christmas night, she dreams that she must help her Nutcracker defeat the evil Rat King in a battle. The Nutcracker toy turns into a real prince and together Clara and her prince go on an adventure through the lands of Snow and Sweets, meeting all sorts of colorful characters on the way.
While the part is magical one, the reality involves hard work to bring Clara’s story to life. In Wilton Dance Studio’s production this year, the part is played by Olivia Seal, an 11-year-old from Ridgefield, CT. Here Olivia tells us what it has been like for her to be part of the production this year.
What did you do to prepare for the Nutcracker audition?
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Olivia: I have been taking ballet since I was three. I did take classes this past summer too. I also watched the previous years of the Nutcracker to become familiar with the dances.
What was it like to find out you had the part of Clara?
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Olivia: I anxiously ran up the studio stairs to see the cast list. One of my friends told me I was on the third page. I found my name and saw ‘Clara’ was next to it. I was overwhelmed with happiness, joy and fulfillment for reaching a lifetime goal. I ran to tell my mom and almost cried because I was so excited!!
What’s been the most challenging part of rehearsals/learning the role so far?
Olivia: The time commitment is challenging. During this Nutcracker season, I’m in the studio six days a week for regular classes, as well as rehearsals. I have also learned new steps, which I will perform.
How do you balance rehearsal time and school or other commitments in the fall?
Olivia: I do the majority of my homework during school, because I have dance after school. I had to make a choice to give up some other activities and sports to try to grow in dance.
What’s been surprising to you about preparing for the part? What’s been special or fun?
Olivia: I was surprised when my teacher asked me to dance the role on pointe. I am honored to be able to dance the role on pointe, because not everyone is asked to do so. Additionally, I will share the stage with my little sister, Emily, who is a mouse in the battle scene. Performing on stage with her will be very special.
When it is the day of the show, what will you do to prepare?
Olivia: I will go to church with my family and then go to the theatre early. I will take a class to warm up my body and stretch. Then, I will do my make-up, hair and get into my costume. Finally, I will stretch one more time before going on stage and try to control my butterflies!
What will you do the day after the show?
Olivia: I will reflect on the show and feel privileged to have danced the role of Clara. Then, I will go to class on Monday and just keep dancing!
The Wilton Dance Studio production of The Nutcracker will be on Sunday, December 8, 2013 at 1 and 4:30 p.m. at Wilton High School’s Clune Performing Arts Center. To buy tickets, call 203-544-9007 and leave a message or order at www.wiltondance.com, click on “Nutcracker Performances” download & print the ticket order form. Tickets are also available at the door on the day of the show.
