FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 16th, 2021
TULSA BALLET TO PERFORM BRAND NEW VERSION OF THE NUTCRACKER
TULSA, OK – Tulsa Ballet will premiere a brand new version of Tulsa’s holiday tradition, The Nutcracker, this December with brand new sets, costumes and choreography.
After 17 years on the stage, Marcello Angelini’s The Nutcracker will be replaced this December with a brand new version complete with moving scenery, projections, over one thousand costumes and choreography by world-renowned choreographers Val Caniparoli and Ma Cong, both previous Resident Choreographers of Tulsa Ballet. Audiences will be taken back to the original setting of early nineteenth century Germany for this magical journey with young Marie as she follows her Nutcracker Prince through the Land of Snow to the Kingdom of Sweets. A cast of nearly 100 local children join the dancers of Tulsa Ballet on stage.
“The Nutcracker is truly an American tradition,” says Angelini. “Last year’s interruption makes this year’s The Nutcracker uniquely significant for our community. First, because it signals a return to some sort of human and emotional normalcy, and then for the return of one of our most cherished holiday traditions. And, just as important, because this year’s The Nutcracker will mark the World Premiere of the third version this company has performed in its 65 year history. A return to tradition with a brand new tradition!”
“Val Caniparoli and Ma Cong have created a stunning new work,” Angelini continues. “One that incorporates 21st century technology while taking us back to the traditional setting of the Victorian era. We know this production will entertain Tulsans for years to come.”
Caniparoli adds, “We really created it for all ages. It’s magical and it’s for the young at heart. We want you to be able to bring your children and see it through the children’s eyes. I just really wanted it to be entertaining and go from generation to generation.”
The concept of co-choreographing a piece, especially one as monumental and sentimental as The Nutcracker, was a decision Angelini didn’t take lightly. After years of working with both choreographers, he knew they would make the perfect team to bring a new magical version to the stage. Cong says, “When Marcello approached me two and a half years ago about being a part of this project as one of two choreographers, it was so exciting, especially to be given the opportunity to collaborate with Val Caniparoli, one of my favorite choreographers. My dream just really came true.”
The new sets and costumes were designed by New Zealand designer Tracy Grant Lord and then constructed over the last year and a half by New Zealand Ballet. Due to shipping delays caused by the pandemic, the arrival of the sets and costumes was delayed for nearly four months. With the assistance of costume shops all over the country and a few extra hands in the Tulsa Ballet wardrobe department, the new production will premiere this December 10-19.
Tickets start at $25 at TulsaBallet.org.
QUICK FACTS
WHEN AND WHERE:
Tulsa Performing Arts Center | 110 E 2nd St. Tulsa, OK 74103
Friday, December 10 | 7:00 pm
Saturday, December 11 | 2:00 pm
Saturday, December 11 | 7:00 pm
Sunday, December 12 | 2:00 pm
Friday, December 17 | 7:00 pm
Saturday, December 18 | 2:00 pm
Saturday, December 18 | 7:00 pm
Sunday, December 19 | 2:00 pm
TICKETS: Starting at $25
FOR MORE INFORMATION: tulsaballet.org or 918.749.6006
Hi-Res images and interview opportunities available:
Bethany Kirby | Marketing Manager
918.392.5949 | Bethany.kirby@tulsaballet.org
I saw on Fox news about free tickets and to email Shannon for Dec. 15th Nutcracker. I didn’t catch the entire email and would like the details sent to me for 5 free tickets. Thank you