When people think of Christmas, they often think of the birth of Jesus, Santa Claus, Christmas trees and presents, but there are also several timeless classics that come to mind. “The Nutcracker” ballet, which was adapted from a story by E.T.A. Hoffmann, featured an original score by Russian composer Peter Tchaikovsky that has become recognized and beloved internationally over the past century.
This Christmas season, Hammond residents will have the opportunity to have sugar plum fairies dance through their heads at the Hammond Ballet Company’s 17 production of “The Nutcracker” live at the Columbia Theatre on Friday, Dec. 13 and Saturday, Dec. 14 at 7 p.m.
“Many SLU students have danced in the production throughout the years,” said Janet Neyrey, a director of the ballet and Southeastern alumnus. “Our cast of over 80 dancers and actors are from our community and area colleges.”
Neyrey, as well as fellow director Grace Jeanfreau and Ayla Expose, are alumni who will be dancing in this year’s production.
Current Southeastern students Samantha Barnes, Averi Harris, Ashanti McLaurin and Emily Randon are among the dancers in this production of “The Nutcracker.” Several dancers have a special connection to the ballet and are looking forward to taking the stage this week.
“In the Nutcracker, I am a member of the ensemble, performing as a part of Waltz of the Flowers,” said Averi Harris, a senior majoring in psychology. “Growing up I always had a certain love and fascination with this particular ballet. It really always summed up my childhood Christmas season. I’m excited for this transition from spectator to performer. I think it’s a lovely way to wrap up my time in Hammond before moving on to graduate school.”
For Randon, her childhood dream of performing in “The Nutcracker” is finally coming true after an injury kept her from performing in a past production.
“A couple years ago, I was badly injured the night before the Nutcracker, which left me unable to perform the role of Dew Drop,” said Randon, a sophomore majoring in kinesiology. “I was heartbroken because I had dreamed of dancing this role since I was little.  This year I was especially excited to be cast as Dew Drop not only because of the beautiful costume but also because of my past connection to the role.”
In addition to Southeastern students and alumni, several guest dancers will be joining the Hammond Ballet Company for these performances.
“Our Nutcracker is a classic holiday production presenting our local talent as well as professional guest artists,” said Neyrey. “Our Sugar Plum Fairy is Nancy Richer, who has danced with the Los Angeles Ballet. The Nutcracker Prince is Andrew Brader, who has danced with the Houston Ballet.”
Barnes, a freshman majoring in general studies, has performed several times in productions of “The Nutcracker,” but this year will be her first time performing with the Hammond Ballet Company and in the role of a Flower. She reiterated how “The Nutcracker” is a tradition that will impress all spectators.
“The Nutcracker is a time-honored tradition in ballet as well as for the holidays,” said Barnes. “It’s whimsical and magical, and the talent involved in this production is astounding. I am honored to be dancing alongside all of these incredible dancers. It’s truly a spectacle, and people will love it.”