Nutcracker Reimagined

Under the artistic direction of Chris Harris and Julia Wilkinson Manley, NPDT is embarking on an incredible new adventure - a BRAND-NEW production of The Nutcracker unlike anything anyone has seen before. In this professionally-produced rendition of a beloved classic, expect all new characters based on Colorado flora and fauna, all to a reimagined use of the familiar Tchaikovsky score. The performance will take place at the gorgeous Parsons Theatre in Northglenn. 

In this tale, Alice - an Abert Squirrel - sets off in the morning to gather acorns, mushrooms, and flowers. She flits amongst Geraniums, Columbines, Asters, and big (very cute) bees. She is enchanted by a Swallowtail Butterfly, Hummingbirds, and several varieties of Mushrooms. Later, Alice and her family host a Harvest Gathering, inviting their friends the Fox Squirrels. While gathering their foraged Acorns, Mushrooms, and Flower Buds, Alice reveals a special treat - a pine cone bedecked with glorious pine nuts! Unbeknownst to the squirrels, however, some Clark’s Nutcracker Jays have been watching the festivities, intrigued by the glimmer of the pine nuts. They fly in to taunt the squirrels and steal the pine cone. But then! A Great Horned Owl appears, turning the whole affair into a chaotic scurry, during which little Alice gets bonked on the head. In her stupor, she dreams of many of her fellow forest inhabitants - Little Brown Bats, Lark Buntings, Black-Footed Ferrets, Kit Foxes, and Boreal Toads who dance for her.  As she awakens, she discovers the snow is falling, and it is time for hibernation. 

The new production boasts over 550 new costume elements, each depicting creatures of the Colorado forests, with scenic design created by Denver School of the Arts student Aaron Lemig.