The beloved holiday tradition captivates audiences with talent, artistry, and community spirit.
The Woodlands, Texas – Sunday, November 25, 2024, at 6 PM
By The Woodlands Student Center Staff - The 38th annual Nutcracker, presented by Boni’s Dance and Performing Arts Studio in partnership with The Woodlands Dance Company, enchanted audiences with four sold-out performances over the weekend of November 24 and 25 at College Park High School Theatre.
Tap link to view gallery of over 600 photos: https://www.smugmug.com/gallery/n-H84bZ9
Among the attendees at Sunday’s 6 PM finale were Madison a student at The Woodlands High School, and her mother, Leesa Price, who managed to purchase the last two tickets at the door. Sitting next to the Woodlands Student Center, Madison and Leesa shared their excitement about attending the performance. Having also participated in The Woodlands’ Lighting of the Doves earlier that weekend, the duo expressed how thrilled they were to make The Nutcracker part of their holiday traditions. Their enthusiasm reflected the widespread community appreciation for this cherished production, which has become a hallmark of the holiday season in The Woodlands.
This review focuses exclusively on the Sunday 6pm finale, which showcased exceptional talent and highlighted the studio’s commitment to excellence in dance education.
Led by Executive Director Bonnie Schuetz, affectionately known as Miss Boni, Boni’s Dance and Performing Arts Studio has provided comprehensive dance instruction for nearly 40 years. Its focus on developing both technical skill and artistic expression was evident throughout this year’s Nutcracker, a production that combined professionalism with heartfelt charm.
Act I: The Party Scene – Warmth and Elegance
The performance opened with the Stahlbaum family’s Christmas party, a lively and elegant tableau that introduced Clara, her family, and friends. The scene was enhanced by the presence of many of Boni’s real family members, whose performances added authenticity and warmth. The dancers, dressed in opulent costumes, moved seamlessly through the social choreography, creating a festive and inviting atmosphere.
Olivia Gorrie as Clara brought poise and precision to her role, capturing the character’s youthful excitement and innocence. Her port de bras and epaulement were beautifully refined, and her ability to convey Clara’s wonder and curiosity was central to the audience’s emotional connection to the story.
Uncle Drosselmeyer played by Will Richards, was portrayed with theatrical flair, captivated both the onstage children and the audience with his mysterious movements and dramatic gestures. His presentation of the Nutcracker doll was a pivotal moment, drawing Clara into the magical world of the ballet.
The magic continued with the Ballerina doll is brought to life by Abby Codrington, Olivia Duerr, Mary Piana, and Chloe Santos as the Harlequin Dolls, and Rachel Brady as the Military Doll. Each dancer performed with precision, mimicking the mechanical movements of their characters flawlessly. Rachel Brady’s crisp and disciplined portrayal of the Military Doll was particularly noteworthy, earning admiration from her proud grandparents seated behind us in the audience. Their joy and pride added an extra layer of warmth to the moment, creating a sense of connection between the performers and their families.
The Battle Scene: Power and Precision
The battle between the Nutcracker and the Mouse Queen was an electrifying highlight of Act I, brought to life by the dynamic performances of Ali Dreiling as the Mouse Queen and Alex Bode as the Nutcracker.
Ali Dreiling’s portrayal of the Mouse Queen was nothing short of extraordinary, delivering one of the most memorable moments of the evening. Her sharp, intricate footwork and commanding stage presence immediately captured attention. Ali infused her movements with a seamless blend of aggression and elegance, portraying a character that was both cunning and regal. Her ability to dominate the stage while executing complex choreography elevated the battle into a spectacle of artistry and athleticism.
Opposite her, Alex Bode, an instructor at Boni’s, brought strength and precision to the role of the Nutcracker. Despite the limited visibility provided by the intricate costume, Alex’s dynamic leaps and bold movements captured the heroism and bravery of her character. Her portrayal was perfectly suited to the demands of the role, creating a steadfast and valiant counterpart to Ali’s sharp ferocity.
The choreography by Aisa Sanders in this segment was fast-paced and thrilling, with well-executed formations and dynamic interactions between the soldiers and mice. The synchronization and energy displayed by the ensemble added depth to the scene, amplifying its intensity and excitement.
The sequence concluded with the Nutcracker’s triumphant victory over the Mouse Queen, paving the way for Clara’s journey into the magical world of the ballet. Together, the performers and ensemble turned the battle into a pivotal and visually captivating moment that drew the audience deeper into the story. Tap link to view gallery of over 600 photos: https://www.smugmug.com/gallery/n-H84bZ9
The Snow Scene: A Winter Wonderland
The Snow Scene at the end of Act I was a stunning culmination of artistry and elegance, elevated by the remarkable performance of Jwan Ardalan as the Snow Queen. Her entrance on an intricately designed sled was a vision of wintery grandeur, earning immediate applause from the audience. Draped in a glittering costume that accentuated her regal presence, Jwan commanded the stage with an air of effortless grace.
A high school senior, Jwan demonstrated the poise and precision of a seasoned performer. Her fluid port de bras and elongated lines conveyed a sense of ethereal beauty, while her perfectly balanced arabesques reflected meticulous attention to technique. Each movement was executed with remarkable control, showcasing her ability to combine strength and delicacy seamlessly. Jwan’s connection to the music added depth to her performance, as she moved with a natural understanding of rhythm and phrasing, creating moments of quiet magic onstage.
Partnering with her was Orlando Moreno as the Snow King, whose clean jumps and assured lifts provided a strong foundation for their partnership. Orlando’s steady presence highlighted the harmony of their duet, where his grounded strength beautifully complemented Jwan’s soaring elegance.
The snowflake ensemble added to the visual splendor with synchronized choreography that captured the swirling energy of falling snow. Their movements, precise and fluid, mirrored the intricate beauty of the season, creating a cohesive and mesmerizing tableau. The softly falling snow, illuminated by the stage lights, enhanced the scene’s enchantment, transporting the audience to a serene winter wonderland.
This breathtaking performance closed Act I with an unforgettable combination of technical refinement and visual magic, paving the way for the wonders of Act II
“This show was absolutely stunning,” one audience member shared during intermission. “The Snow Scene was magical—everything from the choreography to the costumes and lighting felt like stepping into a winter wonderland.”
During the 20-minute intermission that followed, guests explored the theater lobby, which featured Nutcracker-themed merchandise, pop-up photo stations, and refreshments. This intermission added to the festive experience, giving attendees an opportunity to immerse themselves further in the holiday spirit.
Tap link to view gallery of over 600 photos: https://www.smugmug.com/gallery/n-H84bZ9
Act II: The Kingdom of Sweets
The second act began with Clara’s arrival in the Kingdom of Sweets, where she was greeted by the Guardian Angel, performed by Annabel Raymer. Annabel’s serene and graceful movements set the tone for the wonders to come, her radiant stage presence symbolizing Clara’s transition into a magical realm. Each variation offered a unique interpretation of the traditional dances, showcasing the versatility and artistry of the cast.
Peyton Ross, as the Peppermint Princess, brought a delightful burst of energy to the stage. Her bright, crisp movements perfectly captured the playful charm of the character, while her controlled footwork demonstrated technical mastery. Peyton’s lively demeanor and radiant smile made her performance especially engaging, drawing the audience into the joyful spirit of her variation. Her ability to balance precision with personality showcased her talent and added a whimsical flair to the Kingdom of Sweets.
Lily Bridges, as the Spanish Contessa, delivered a performance that was fiery and precise. Her intricate footwork and sharp épaulement captured the bold energy of the Spanish variation, drawing the audience into her vibrant performance.
Mary-Cate Hensley, as the Mirliton Princess, was a study in grace and lyrical beauty. Her phrasing within the choreography was particularly noteworthy, adding an emotive layer to her already polished technique. Her movements flowed effortlessly, creating a serene and captivating presence on stage.
The Arabian Princess, portrayed by Ashlyn Singer, brought seamless transitions and controlled extensions emphasized the strength and elegance of the choreography.
Kylee Ketcherside as the Chinese Princess delivered a dynamic and playful performance. Her crisp, precise movements brought energy to her variation, showcasing her ability to execute quick, intricate choreography with precision and flair.
Lily Smith, as Dewdrop, was radiant in the Waltz of the Flowers. Her ballon in jumps and clean spotting in pirouettes were exceptional, demonstrating a balance of athleticism and artistry. The accompanying Waltz Corps performed with cohesion and elegance, adding depth to this iconic scene.
The Waltz of the Flowers, led by Lily Smith as Dewdrop, was another highlight of Act II. Lily’s radiant energy and technical mastery anchored the scene, with her impressive ballon during jumps and sharp spotting in pirouettes demonstrating her exceptional skill. The accompanying Waltz Corps performed with elegance and cohesion, enhancing the grandeur of this iconic sequence.
Tap link to view gallery of over 600 photos: https://www.smugmug.com/gallery/n-H84bZ9
Mother Ginger and Les Polichinelles: Whimsy and Joy
Miss Boni herself graced the stage as Mother Gigogne, delighting the audience with her playful and larger-than-life portrayal. Accompanied by the Mother Ginger Girls and Les Polichinelles, this segment brought a whimsical energy to the production. The young dancers, dressed as clowns, moved with precision and enthusiasm, their cheerful antics bringing laughter and applause.
The Grand Pas de Deux: Strength and Elegance
The performance reached its pinnacle in the grand pas de deux, an epic moment that brought the audience to the edge of their seats. Julia Schanta, as the Sugar Plum Fairy, delivered a performance that was not only technically brilliant but emotionally captivating. Her immaculate pointe work and fluid transitions displayed flawless control and strength. Each arabesque reached its full extension with effortless precision, exuding the regal grace that defines this beloved role.
What truly elevated Julia’s portrayal, however, was her ability to connect with the audience. Her expressive facial expressions and radiant energy created a magnetic presence, drawing the crowd into her every movement. She danced with a rare combination of technical perfection and heartfelt artistry, embodying the generosity and warmth of the Sugar Plum Fairy with every gesture. Julia’s ability to convey joy and emotion through her performance turned the grand pas de deux into a transcendent experience, making it the defining moment of the evening.
Dillon Bell, a student at Sam Houston State University, complemented Julia’s brilliance as the Cavalier with a steadfast and supportive performance. His partnering was confident and assured, seamlessly executing intricate lifts and turns that allowed Julia’s artistry to take center stage. Dillon’s controlled jumps and clean lines added a layer of strength to the duet, enhancing the balance between power and grace that the choreography demands.
Tap link to view gallery of over 600 photos: https://www.smugmug.com/gallery/n-H84bZ9
Together, Julia and Dillon’s chemistry and mutual trust transformed the pas de deux into a harmonious and emotionally resonant masterpiece. The grandeur of their performance brought the Kingdom of Sweets to life, leaving the audience spellbound as they witnessed the culmination of the ballet’s magical journey.
This final moment, rich with artistry and connection, ensured the production ended on an unforgettable note, celebrating both the technical precision and emotional depth of Boni’s exceptional performers.
Boni's A Cultural Treasure
For nearly 40 years, Boni’s Dance and Performing Arts Studio has been a cornerstone of The Woodlands’ cultural community. Offering comprehensive dance education for all ages, the studio fosters a love for dance that extends beyond the stage. Its commitment to excellence was evident in every aspect of this year’s Nutcracker, from the intricate choreography to the seamless staging and detailed costumes.
This production also reflected modern ballet trends, with creative interpretations of traditional elements such as renaming variations "Chocolate" or "Coffee." These innovations allowed for fresh and abstract representations, embracing artistic innovation while honoring the timeless charm of the original story.
While there was no live orchestra, the high-quality soundtrack, expertly managed by the sound engineer, ensured that Tchaikovsky’s iconic score resonated beautifully throughout the theater, enhancing the emotional impact of the performance.
“Boni’s Nutcracker is such a beautiful tradition. It brings so much joy to the community, and the talent of these performers is incredible. It’s the perfect way to start the holiday season.”
Conclusion: A Holiday Tradition Worth Celebrating
As the final curtain fell, the audience erupted into a standing ovation, a testament to the dedication and artistry of the dancers, instructors, and creative team. From the lively party scene to the grand pas de deux, every moment of the production reflected the transformative power of dance to inspire and unite.
Boni’s Dance and Performing Arts Studio continues to enrich The Woodlands with its contributions to the arts, offering performances that celebrate tradition while embracing innovation. The 38th annual Nutcracker was a shining example of this legacy, leaving audiences eagerly anticipating next year’s production and ensuring that this cherished holiday tradition endures for generations to come.
In addition to The Nutcracker, Boni’s hosts its annual recital during Memorial Day Weekend at the Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion. This optional event invites all students to participate, creating an unforgettable experience for dancers and their families alike. The 2025 recital, spanning two days of Memorial Day Weekend, further cements Boni’s role as a pillar of The Woodlands’ cultural community.
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