The Nutcracker

Vicki's thoughts--Delaney has been taking dance for three semesters now and I can't begin to tell you how wonderful I think dance is for my sweet girl..  She has developed confidence where before it greatly lacked.  She often cries about going to bed, fearful of nightmares.  These have diminished greatly.  Perhaps, it's coincidental and it's all happening because she's just growing up, but deep within me, I feel that these changes, are impart, due to dance. A few months ago, Delaney auditioned for the part of Clara.  She was so excited when she got it.  After some extra Saturday practices now the time comes when we get to see our star shine.  I love to watch her dance.  She wears  a smile of  pure joy.  I love her teacher.  Stacy has grace and you can tell she truly loves teaching others this wonderful art.

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A synopsis of the show--  Kingdom of Sweets:  Our story starts after the Christmas party has ended and the children have gone to bed.  There is a beautiful snow storm and back in the living room the bears and toy dolls brought by Herr Drosselmeyer, a toy maker and magician have come to life, having a party of their own. Suddenly, rats descend on the toys to ruin their fun.  The soldier doll calls for help and the battle begins. Clara is wakened by all the noise downstairs and wanders down to check on her beloved Nutcracker doll.  She finds the living room a mess and wonders what happened. She then drifts back to sleep and dreams of a land where confections and flowers dance with her and the Nutcracker is a real Prince. 

 I'm super excited about her beautiful dress....a wonderful Goodwill find!

Barry's thoughts--Although at times Delaney seemed a little unsure of herself, how wonderful it was to see her center stage performing her part. The greatest thing about the teacher is how she has instilled confidence in Delaney.  She is a great deal less fearful and a lot more engaged in the dance club.

As we were watching the performance, I was much impressed as to how all the dancers, regardless of age, seemed to be enjoying what they were doing. At one point Mrs. Stacey leaned over and spoke into Delaney's ear, Delaney beamed. Mrs. Stacey has a genuine interest in her students and it really showed.

I decided that Delaney did something that I would never do... to be purposely on a stage and performing with so many people watching. That takes guts. I also enjoyed how the older girls seemed to watch out for the younger dancers when they were interacting on stage.

At the end of the show all of the cast came out to take a bow. The Nutcracker handed Delaney a bunch of roses, which took her completely by surprise. I think that it could not have gone better for her. All in all,  it was a great night for Delaney and our family.

 "Mom, can we have some hot chocolate for a celebration?"  Sure!  what a splendid evening!