Atlanta Ballet Brings the Magic of “The Nutcracker” to Local School Kids

Atlanta Dazzles Kids with Magical Performance of “The Nutcracker”

Atlanta is alive with the spirit of the season as the **_Atlanta Ballet_** enchants school children from across the metro area with its remarkable rendition of **_“The Nutcracker.”_** On a bright Tuesday morning in mid-December, hundreds of elementary school students eagerly made their way into the **_Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre_**, buzzing with excitement and wonder.

Captivating Young Hearts

As the curtain rises, you can visibly see the awe on the kids’ faces. Sarah Erickson, the director of Fine Arts at Atlanta Public Schools, shared the heartwarming moment saying, “Their eyes just light up when the stage is illuminated.” That moment of pure joy is what the Atlanta Ballet hopes to achieve each year through their special **_Kids in Step_** performance.

This year, the performance is an abbreviated version of the timeless classic, running for about **_35 minutes_** and focusing mainly on the enchanting second act. With over **_4,000 children_** from the Atlanta area given the chance to witness this magical production live, it’s clear that the event is more than just a theatrical show; it’s an engaging experience designed to inspire a love for the arts in young hearts.

Creating Future Arts Advocates

But it doesn’t stop there. Erickson emphasized how the goal is not just to create the next generation of dancers but *to foster little arts advocates*. She passionately stated, “If they don’t see the arts, they can’t advocate for it.” By introducing these kids to the world of ballet, they are providing them with a valuable cultural experience that can stay with them for a lifetime.

A Flurry of Excitement

No performance would be complete without a standout moment—the crowd favorite is when the theater fills with the **_flurry of scurrying feet_** as the mice come to life on stage. The sheer enthusiasm can be felt in the air as shocked faces transform into jubilant expressions, with excited screams and laughter ringing throughout the auditorium. “Like, the shock in all of their faces and the jubilee of excitement, and like the uniform screams and shrills, is just exciting,” shared Erickson.

Backstage Secrets Unveiled

This unique performance even gives a special glimpse behind the scenes. Atlanta Ballet’s dean of the Centre for Dance Education, Sharon Story, mentioned that their technical director steps out to engage the children with fascinating insights. “Our technical director is going to come out and explain the lights, explain how the big book works, explain all the inner magic that happens backstage – which the general public does not get that privilege,” she revealed. This precious knowledge is exclusively reserved for the children, adding an educational twist to their beloved outing.

Cherishing the Full Experience

The magic of **_The Nutcracker_** isn’t just reserved for school children; the Atlanta Ballet also presents the full performance to the general public through December **_26._** For those who want to experience the cocktails of traditional storytelling through music and dance, this is an event not to be missed. The festive spirit combined with the elegance of ballet is a treat for the whole family.

So, whether you’re a first-time ballet goer or a seasoned fan, **_The Nutcracker_** promises to leave you with a sense of wonder and delight. Bring your friends and family and make this holiday season a memorable one in Atlanta!