Schuylkill Ballet ready to return 'The Nutcracker' to stage

Nov. 21—Schuylkill Ballet Theatre is once again bringing the holiday classic "The Nutcracker" to the stage this year.

"This is our 43rd anniversary," said Sara Schimpf, assistant director and choreographer.

The show is based on the story "The Nutcracker and the King of Mice" by E.T.A. Hoffman. It's a story about a young German girl who dreams of a Nutcracker prince and a fierce battle against a mouse king. Russian composer Peter Tchaikovsky later turned the story into a ballet.

On Sunday, 35 cast members were practicing for the performances scheduled for 7 p.m. Friday, Saturday and Sunday, Nov. 27, at Schuylkill Haven Area High School's Zwerling Auditorium. Tickets are available at schuylkillballet.com and at the door.

The cast includes Julia Korell, 12, of Auburn, playing the lead role of Clara; Brittany Schock, 23, of Schuylkill Haven, as the Dew Drop Fairy; and Jenna Reber, 16, of Cressona, as the Snow Queen

"It's a magical story and a fun journey to watch," Schock said.

Greg Schuettler, 33, of Port Carbon, has been in the show for 29 years.

"I started with being one of the bad boys during the party scene," he said.

Schuettler said he enjoys the show's family atmosphere and the creative ability he gets to display.

"I had no real goals for starting or stopping. I've come back because I enjoy doing it," he said.

Another performance: Artists in Motion, Schuylkill Haven, will also present "The Nutcrakcer" this year, with performances set for 6:30 p.m. Dec. 17 and 2:30 p.m. Dec. 18 at Schuylkill Haven Area's Zwerling Auditorium. Information is available at artistsinmotionpa.com.

Crimson Academy for the Performing Arts, Pottsville, will present "A Winter's Fairy Tale," at the Pottsville Area High School. Shows are scheduled for 6 p.m. Dec. 10 and 2 p.m. Dec. 11. Tickets are available by calling 570-728-2576

Contact the writer: amarchiano@republicanherald.com; 570-628-6023