“The Nutcracker” a Timeless Tradition in Marshfield

Luisa Marion of Marshfield and Aaron Galindo of Menomonie rehearsing the "Pas De Deux" as Sugar Plum Fairy and Her Cavalier for Main Street Conservatory of Dance's upcoming performance of "The Nutcracker". Photo by Tricia Marion.

Main Street Conservatory Of Dance To Perform Annual “Nutcracker” Performance

In 1892, Marius Petipa and Lev Ivanov’s choreography combined with Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky’s score created a holiday tradition that lives on today in “The Nutcracker.”

Adapted from E.T.A. Hoffmann’s story “The Nutcracker and the Mouse King” via Alexander Dumas’ adapted story “The Nutcracker,” the performance has a rich history internationally and here in the U.S. For more than a decade, local audiences have enjoyed the famous Russian ballet right here in Marshfield thanks to the work of Main Street Conservatory of Dance.

“Our Nutcracker tradition in Marshfield began fourteen years ago as a collaboration with the UW-Marshfield Performing Arts Series, with the support and guidance of Greg Rindfleisch and Patti Jaromin-Meis,” said Heather Conrad, owner and studio director. “We have now been performing at the Marshfield High School for a number of years. “

With performances featuring the members of the Marshfield Youth Ballet Company and including students in the Classical Ballet Program and Jazz Dance Company, auditions are held in early September with rehearsals held every Sunday in addition to the 2-5 days per week that the students take dance technique classes.

“This year, our cast is full of strong, talented performers, sure to impress and make you smile,” said Conrad. “We had a big group of graduates this past year, so there are a lot of fresh faces performing the lead roles. I’m so proud of the work they have done- they are polished and ready!”

All of the hard work culminates in annual performances right before Christmas, full of eager audiences. Conrad attributes the continued support of The Nutcracker performances to family tradition.

“I think that, especially at the holidays, people love and cherish having traditions with their families,” she said. “Attending ‘The Nutcracker’ each year is a wholesome, affordable, family-friendly activity that everyone can enjoy. It’s timeless.”

Though tickets are often available at the door before each show, everyone is encouraged to stop by the Main Street Conservatory of Dance studio (1008 S Cedar Ave) Monday-Thursday 2:30-8:30pm to reserve seats in advance.

Children attending the performance are invited to participate in a special backstage tour beginning one hour before showtime. The backstage tour includes a guided tour, photo opportunities with the cast, and a craft station. Backstage passes are available by request and tours end 20 minutes before the curtain goes up. Call (715) 384-8584 for more information.

The Nutcracker
Saturday, December 10 at 2:00pm, 6:00pm
Sunday, December 11 at 2:00pm
Marshfield High School Auditorium
Tickets: $10