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Early in 1891 the legendary composer Peter Ilyich Tchaikovsky received a commission from the Imperial Theatre Directorate at St. Petersburg to compose a one-act lyric opera together with a ballet for presentation during the following season. Accepting Tchaikovsky’s choice of sub-ject for the opera, the Theatre Directorate selected Alexandre Dumas’ French adaptation of E.T.A. Hoffmann’s tale, The Nutcracker and the Mouse King, for the ballet.
Tchaikovsky was not pleased with the subject selection because he felt it did not lend itself to theatrical presentation and was therefore quite unsuited to serve as a scenario for a ballet. Both the opera and ballet were presented on December 18, 1892. The ballet, conducted by Ric-cardo Drigo, was received somewhat unfavorably. Dance historians have attributed this to the Nutcracker’s unusual story, which was quite different from the romantic tales normally presented.
The Nutcracker choreography was begun by the redoubtable Marius Petipa. The balance of the work was taken up by his assistant Leon Ivanov when Petipa fell ill. According to historical accounts, when the ballet was finally produced, Petipa refused to have his name linked with it, feeling his own part in its creation was insufficient to be publicly announced. However, dance historians have recognized his contribu-tion, and the original choreography is generally credited to both Petipa and Ivanov.
First presented in Western Europe by the Sadler’s Wells Ballet at the Sadler’s Wells Theatre in London, January 30, 1934, the production was staged by Nicholas Sergeyev after the original Petipa-Ivanov version. The first full-length American Nutcracker was produced by the San Francisco Ballet in 1944 with choreography by William Christensen.
Although constantly changing over its sixty-plus-year history, one of the landmark Nutcrackers was brought to the Metropolitan area in 1954 by the New York City Ballet with choreography by George Bal-anchine. Subsequent notable Nutcrackers have been choreographed and staged by Rudolf Nureyev, Royal Swedish Ballet (1967) and
Nutcrackerthe
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England’s Royal Ballet (1968), and Mikhail Baryshnikov, American Ballet Theatre (1976). With literally hundreds of productions nation-wide, the Nutcracker has become the quintessential holiday classic, presented in theatrical productions on ice, on the dance stage and in the movies. This American holiday staple has also become an artistic lifeline, often providing over fifty percent of a dance company’s annual ticket sales.
The basic libretto of the Nutcracker has as many interpretations as there are staged versions. The characters’ names often change and plot twists are added. The only constant is the music. Tchaikovsky’s musical genius created one of the most recognizable and enduring scores ever written. An abbreviated version, the Nutcracker Suite, is one of the most recorded selections in classical repertoire. In the final analysis, it is the music that has truly given the Nutcracker a life of its own.
The Nutcracker is set in Western Europe during the 1800s. A doctor and town mayor, Hans Stahlbaum delights in holding large holiday gatherings for family and friends. His two children, Clara and Fritz, anxiously await the arrival of guests. The snow evokes a pleasantly festive atmosphere as the guests arrive. Tardy as always, Clara’s god-father, Herr Drosselmeyer, arrives with special fanfare. He causes quite a stir and then mesmerizes and dazzles all onlookers with his exquisite mechanical dolls.
Presents are distributed to all the children, and Fritz receives a rocking hobby train. A bit jealous, Clara approaches Drosselmeyer for her gift. He teases her with a large mouse doll. Fritz pulls a baby mouse from the mother mouse’s apron and sends Clara scampering. Drosselmeyer quickly makes amends and offers Clara an unusual prize, a colorful Nutcracker. Clara is instantly enthralled with the gift. Sibling rivalry takes hold, and in a tussle to wrest the Nutcracker away from Clara, Fritz breaks him. Drosselmeyer repairs the poor Nutcracker, but Clara is disappointed. He promises that all will be well.
Evening overtakes the party and the guests depart. Clara is shooed to bed. Peace and quiet prevails in the Stahlbaum residency, or does it? Clara has awakened and, longing for her Nutcracker, comes back to the livingroom. She quickly finds her doll and falls asleep again. Thus begins
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Thematically, Clara is cast as a mid-teen just blossoming into adult-hood. She is young enough to display childlike emotions, yet mature enough to fantasize that a doll turned human can have idyllic qualities of heroism, selflessness, tenderness and a zest for adventure. Her at-traction to the handsome Nutcracker is only natural; Clara has created him in her mind’s eye. She has molded a doll into a living being, and a prince at that. Her devotion to the Nutcracker is symbolized by her brave effort to save him from being vanquished by the evil Mouse King. As the Nutcracker becomes more lifelike, the dream sequence carries her to a romantic interlude, a magical winter wonderland and an exotic garden in the Kingdom of the Sweets.
The character of Drosselmeyer has almost endless possibilities. The Seiskaya version adopts the characterization of him as Clara’s god-father, who is an eccentric maker of magnificent mechanical toys. A widower with no children of his own, he delights in teasing and pleasing his only godchild. Drosselmeyer’s relationship to the Nutcracker is simply that of an artisan. Clara’s dream vision of Drosselmeyer is an expression of her affection for him and an extension of the attributes she sees in him.
The Nutcracker presents two major ensemble dances: the Dance of the Snowflakes and the Dance of the Flowers. One of the strengths of the Seiskaya Company has always been ensemble segments. Nowhere is this more evident than in these dances. Flowing lines, exact patterns and intricate interplay between corps and soloists are the hallmark of the choreography.
Cyril W. Beaumont, the noted dance critic, historian and author, panned the original 1934 British version of the Nutcracker: “The final scene is merely an excuse for the traditional series of character dances which, in this instance, are seldom appropriate to the situation and, generally speaking, are of indifferent quality.” History has proven that even a revered critic like Mr. Beaumont can be wrong. The Second Act has long been considered the ballet’s highlight. The Seiskaya version of the Kingdom of the Sweets, Act II, reaffirms the classical approach. The scene opens with the Sugar Plum Fairy surrounded by a host of
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angels, followed by the entrance of her court, and the arrival of a nut-shell boat with Clara and the Nutcracker. The members of the Sugar Plum’s court represent many lands, as well as characters, from children’s fairy tales. The couple is presented with sweets and delicacies from around the world. The Nutcracker tells of his valiant struggle against the Mouse King and Clara’s heroic efforts. Clara’s dream at this junc-ture takes on a “sugar and spice and everything nice” tone. Seiskaya’s unusual choreographic adaptations frame the character ballet dances with a unique quality.
Beaumont was a lot more generous in his opinion of the Dance of the Snowflakes and, in particular, the Sugar Plum Pas de Deux: “. . . there are three beautiful ‘classical numbers’ - the pas de deux danced by the Sugar-Plum Fairy and her Cavalier, the latter’s variation, and the ‘Dance of the Sugar-Plum Fairy.’” Seiskaya’s rendition of this famous pas de deux matches the elegance, beauty and charisma of Seiskaya Ballet principals Alexandra Palma, Danielle Lovetro and Kristina Diaz with guest artist Nicholas Coppula’s consummate artistry. About the pas de deux it can be said, “We saved the best for last.”
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Born in Halifax, West Yorkshire, England, Matthew Dibble was trained at the Royal Ballet School under the watchful eye of director
Sir Anthony Dowell. He was quickly engaged in Japan, where he became a founding member and principal dancer of the
Kumakawa Ballet, dancing works by Sir Fredrick Aston and Roland Petit. Arriving in the United States in 2001, he joined
the Twyla Tharp Dance Company. Choreographed by Twyla Tharp and set to music by Billy Joel, Movin’ Out allowed him to be showcased in
the principal roles of James and Eddie. Splitting time amongst them, Matthew was a guest principal artist with Scottish Ballet
and also worked with The Benjamin Millepied Company in New York as well as The Christopher Wheeldon
Company. In 2010, he again worked with Ms. Tharp in a starring role on Broadway in Come Fly Away, created and performed an original principal role at
the Tony Awards Ceremony to rave reviews, and went on the first national tour of Come Fly Away. He has traveled extensively, setting works for Benjamin Millepied and Twyla Tharp with the National Ballet of China, The Pacific Northwest Ballet, and most recently, with the St. Louis Ballet.
Starting dance in North Pittsburgh, Nicholas Coppula’s talent was quickly recognized, and he was accepted into the Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre School. Upon graduation, he joined the company where his bio raved: “Just mention Nicholas Coppula’s name around Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre and the word ‘genius’ repeatedly crops up.” It is his sheer brilliance that makes him a stellar performer. Nicholas’ “sharp intelligence, strong work ethic and creative imagination” are the very qualities that he is most heralded for at PBT. During his tenure at Pittsburgh Ballet, he performed a plethora of roles, however the “Pies de resistance,” was the performance in 2012 of the Giselle Peasant Pas de D e u x . Nicholas’ pathos can be appreciated in the breadth of performances which, a sampling of, include his roles as soloist and principal in George Balanchine’s Agon and as Elegy in Seranade; Balanchine’s Allegro Brillante and Who Cares and Mark Morris’ Drink to Me Only With Thine Eyes and Maelstrom. In 2010 and again in 2013, Nicholas showcased his range as a dancer performing in Twyla Tharp’s Upper Room and Nine Sinatra Songs.
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Principal dancer Danielle Lovetro in last year’s exciting performance paired with guest artist, Stephen Hanna, former New York City Ballet’s principal dancer. Danielle charmed audiences with her ethereal grace and stage presence, punc-tuated by her elegant synchronization with Hanna. Danielle reunited with Hanna once again during her BESFI 2014 per-formance. The Smithtown Messenger’s Christina Pandolfi praised her performance, writing “Closing out the second act on a high note, principal dancer Danielle Lovetro made waves with her impossibly long legs in the challenging Diana & Acteon Pas de Deux, wonderfully matched with returning Guest Artist Hanna. Complemented by Hanna’s athletic, yet fluid lyricism, Lovetro is skilled far beyond her young fourteen years and shows tremendous promise, gracing us with her perfect arabesques, fluid extensions and a distinct grace of movement. Watch out, world.”
Combining grace, powerful turns and energetic leaps Kristina Diaz garners rave reviews, “No less pleasing was Kristina Diaz as the Chocolate Soldier who wowed the audience with magnificent side straddle split jumps and a series of gallop turns culminating in a burst of pirouettes.”This season she reprises the roles of Dew Drop, Clara, Chocolate Soldier and, for the first time, Sugar Plum.
Seiskaya’s most recently promoted principal dancer, Kristina is eclectic personified. As described by one reporter during BESFI 2014, “…the fast-paced, lively Flames of Paris Pas de Deux, (was) danced by First Soloist Kristina Diaz and returning Guest Artist (Oğulcan) Borova. Fierce turns and jumps were the star of this pas de deux, as Diaz challenged Borova to match her impassioned elevation. He returned the favor, delighting us with his raw power and his seeming ability to defy gravity with each stunning leap.”
A true “presence,” principal dancer Alexandra Palma will dance the role of Sugar Plum Fairy for a record breaking fifth consecutive year. Hailed as electric when she takes the stage, Alex along with Stephen Hanna, former New York City Ballet Principal Dancer set “the stage ablaze” during the Nutcracker 2013 run. This dynamic duo again graced the Staller stage during BESFI 2014 when they partnered
in the Don Quixote Pas de Deux. Alexandra’s performance as Kitri was heralded as, “Gifted with an effortless ease of movement.” She embodies all that one would expect from a ballerina. Alexandra exudes graceful charm paired with an undeniable stage presence that always mesmerizes audiences. Her elongated extensions, stunning grand jetés and ability to perform a multitude of perfect fouettés while making it look effortless, make her one of the most revered Seiskaya ballerinas ever.
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“Let them praise His name with dance” ~ Psalm 149
Merry Christmas&
Happy New Year
Congratulations Brianna Jimenezand The Cast of Nutcracker 2014
Warren Camhi, Guest ArtistRole: Drosselmeyer Seiskaya’s quintessential magic man returns for an 9th season as the eccentric and redoubtable Herr Drosselmeyer. Lauded for his previous performances, he holds a Masters in Fine Arts from Penn State in theater work and technical direction and has been a teacher at Western Suffolk BOCES for thirty years.
Other Featured Performers
Guest ArtistsFirst Soloistsv v
Alyse Melillo, Guest ArtistRoles: Snow, FlowerA former Seiskaya First Soloist, the irrepressible Alyse regaled audiences with her interpretations of Fritz and Chocolate Soldier and as The Snob in La Boutique Fantasque garnering acclaim for her acting and athletic dancing. She is now a Dance major at the Philadelphia School for the Arts.
Natalie Butkevich, First SoloistRoles: Snow Queen, Bo Peep, Flower Soloist, SnowExquisite classical lines, gorgeous feet and a demure presence draw us to her many talents during this year’s Nutcracker as the regal Snow Queen and the charming shepherdess, Bo Peep. To her credit, Natalie laudably captured the rambunctious and snippy personality of Fritz in her portrayal last season.
Girie Carrero-Sagona, First SoloistRoles: Clara, Dew Drop, Friend of Clara and FritzLauded by critics following her triumph in the Esmerelda Pas de Deux in BESFI ‘14 as a dancer with “undeniable presence,” Girie will reprise the role of Clara for a second season. Her poised pirouettes, assured technique and artistic athleticism should yield a captivating Dew Drop as well.
Nicole DiFiore, Guest ArtistRoles: Rehearsal Mistress Party, ChineseA former Seiskaya Ballet principal dancer, Nicole danced leading Nutcracker roles such as the Sugar Plum, Clara and Dew Drop. A Chemistry major in Stony Brook University’s Pre-Med program, Nicole continues to dance, teaches at Seiskaya and frequently serves as a rehearsal mistress.
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Jade-Alexis Donnelly, First SoloistRoles: Dew Drop, Snow Queen, Chinese, Flower SoloistA versatile dancer, Jade is the first to dance both Dew Drop and Snow Queen in the same season in addition to the athletic roles of Chocolate Soldier and Chinese. Noted for her “fluid grace” in the Le Corsaire Pas de Deux in BESFI 2014, Jade’s range of roles will be a true showcase of her talents.
More Featured PerformersFirst Soloists
Featured SoloistsSoloists
v vAshley Chenery, First SoloistRoles: Clara, Friend of Clara and Fritz, Flower SoloistBlessed with superb technique and sparkling stage presence, Ashely will again showcase her many strengths as Clara and Friend of Clara and Fritz. During BESFI 2014, Ashley danced The Coppelia Wedding Pas de Deux, garnering accolades for her “gorgeous feet and undeniable grace.”
Julia Kharzeev, First SoloistRoles: Snow Queen, Flower Soloist, Arabian SoloistWith her excellent technique, long lines and grace, Julia is the quintessential classical ballerina. The definition of elegance as Snow Queen, Julia will also be showcasing her flawless leg extensions and remarkable flexibility as an Arabian Soloist and her synchronized turns in the role of Flower Soloist.
Alyson Miller, First SoloistRoles: Snow Queen, Flower Soloist, Arabian SoloistAly’s elegant port de bras and graceful carriage lend an ethereal air to the role of Snow Queen. Intertwined with her partner, she will also charm with her exotic poses and angular arm movements as Arabian Soloist. She will also be featured as a Friend of Clara and Fritz and a Flower Soloist.
Jamie Bergold, Featured SoloistRoles: Doll, Bo Peep, Arabian Soloist, SnowJamie brings her long, fluid lines and sophistication to the classic Seiskaya role of Doll this season. Returning to the Nutcracker stage as the cherubic Bo Peep, a role that she has embraced and made her own, Jamie will beautifully personify agility and strength in the role of Arabian Soloist.
Alexandra Berlingieri, Featured SoloistRoles: Fritz, Arabian Soloist, Snow, FlowerThis season, Alexandra once again performs the role of Fritz, Clara’s tenacious and persistently pesky brother. With her stunningly precise technique Alexandra will dazzle in Snow and Flowers. Watch as her flexibility, and strength take center stage as she performs as a soloist during Arabian.
Jenna Lee, Featured SoloistRoles: Chocolate Soldier, Fritz, Chinese, Arabian SoloistFrom the robust acrobatics of Chocolate Soldier to Fritz’s numerous pirouettes and a la seconde gallops, no challenge is too daunting. Look for Jenna’s well articulated arabesques in Snow and her charmingly characterized movements in Arabian as well as her jaunty demeanor in Chinese.
Diana Atoian, SoloistRoles: Fritz, Friend of Clara and Fritz, Snow, FlowerDiana adds several new roles to her repertoire this season. Critics noted her superb technique, and “unbelievably controlled pirouettes” in her performance as Black Poodle in La Boutique Fantasque in BESFI ‘14. Diana is a versatile, spirited dancer, equally at home on stage in any role.
Amber Donnelly, SoloistRoles: Bo Peep, Friend of Clara and Fritz, SnowA freshly minted soloist, she takes on a bevy of new challenges this season. She exudes a gentle playfulness wrapped in a quiet charismatic persona that makes her a delight as Bo Peep. As a Friend of Fritz and Clara, Amber is thoroughly engaging and sparkles in both Flower and Snow.
Brianna Jimenez, SoloistRoles: Friend of Clara and Fritz, Snow, FlowerWith pristine technique and grace beyond her years, Brianna will perform Friend of Clara and Fritz. Reprising her roles in Flower and Snow, Brianna became the youngest Seiskaya dancer to ever do so. With rave reviews for her “exuberant leaps” during BESFI 2014, this is one dancer to watch out for!
Madison Mursch, SoloistRoles: Flower Soloist, Friend of Clara and Fritz, SnowBlessed with long lines and gorgeous feet, Madison beguiled the audience in BESFI 2014 with her performance as the mischievous Thief in La Boutique Fantasque. Whether she is gliding across the stage in Snow or executing pirouettes with panache as Flower Soloist, this dancer shows ample promise.
Composer Peter Ilyich TchaikovskyChoreographer Valia SeiskayaSet & Scenery Designer Margaret PiotrowskaCostume Mistress Sue DiFioreLighting Designer Elizabeth SilverStage Manager Elizabeth Silver
Guest Artists
Nicholas Coppula Matthew Dibble
PrinciPAlsAlexandra Palma Danielle Lovetro Kristina Diaz
ACT IIn order of appearance:
Herr Drosselmeyer: W. CamhiDrosselmeyer’s Assistant: M. HarriganClara: K. Diaz, A. Chenery, Gi. SagonaFritz: D. Atoian, J. Lee, A. BerlingieriHerr and Frau Stahlbaum: P. and H. Sagona
Guests at PartyK. Borch S. Butkevich Al.Caraiani D. EssexT. Fitzgerald J. Hsu D. Pyrros D. Volpicella
Children at PartyK. Allgaier A. Aube D. Baranowski B. BorchM. Brand S. Cipriano S. Creedon T. DaviesA. DeLorenzo Z. Gonzalez B. Volpicella M. VolpicellaM. Butkevich A. Caraiani L. Caraiani S. CassaraA. Chandler M. Cunniffe S. Ferro B. HarriganJ. Jarrah M. Martufi E. Pyrros A. WangC. Borch M. Essex A. Franquiero J. JaramilloS. Moshe Gr. Sagona A. Samara Ka. TangKe. Tang Vc. Ye Vv. Ye
Premiere December 15, 1995Nutcracker 2014
(cont’d)
- Bravo -Seiskaya Ballet
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Phillip L. Sciarillo, PublisherSalvatori DiPeri, Publisher
Smithtown Messenger
Ronkonkoma Review
Brookhaven Review
Patchogue Medford News
Governesses: J. Virnelli J. Cozzo S. Santarsiero
Friends of Clara and FritzM. Abrams D. Atoian J. Bergold A. BerlingieriE. Bishop N. Butkevich A. Chenery F. DennehyA. Donnelly B. Hanson Mn. Hogden Mt. HogdenB. Jimenez J. Kharzeev J. Lee D. LovetroA. Miller M. Mursch L. Pirraglia Gi. Sagona Maids: K. Amella, L. LeeButler: R. SagonaDoll: D. Lovetro, A. Palma, J. Donnelly, J. Bergold Chocolate Soldier: J. Donnelly, K. Diaz, J. LeeNutcracker: Matthew Dibble
Mouse King: J. LevyMice (*Soloists)
M. Abrams E. Bishop* M. Brand S. CiprianoJ. Cozzo F. Dennehy* A. Franquiero* B. Hanson*Mn. Hogden J. Jarrah* L. Pirraglia* E. PyrrosS. Santarsiero J. Virnelli
Soldiers K. Allgaier D. Baranowski B. Borch M. ButkevichA. Caraiani L. Caraiani S. Cassara S. CreedonT. Davies A. DeLorenzo K. Donetski M. EssexS. Ferro A. Fetzer Z. Gonzalez B. HarriganJ. Jaramillo S. Moshe Gr. Sagona B. Volpicella Cavalry: S. Hogden*, M. Fetzer, B. Hanson, A. Vlase
Snow Queen: N. Butkevich, J. Donnelly, J. Kharzeev, D. Lovetro, A. Miller
SnowflakesD. Atoian A. Aube J. Bergold A. BerlingieriE. Bishop N. Butkevich A. Chenery N. DiFioreA. Donnelly J. Donnelly Mt. Hogden B. JimenezJ. Kharzeev J. Lee A. Melillo A. MillerM. Mursch Gi. Sagona A. Simmons M. Tonns
(cont’d)
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ACT II
Sugar PlumA. Palma D. Lovetro K. Diaz
AngelsK. Allgaier D. Baranowski B. Borch M. ButkevichS. Cassara M. Cunniffe T. Davies A. DeLorenzoS. Ferro Z. Gonzalez B. Harrigan Ka. TangKe. Tang Vv. Ye
Spanish Dancers: S. Bedell, J. Hsu
Arabian Dancers (*Soloists)M. Abrams J. Bergold* A. Berlingieri* E. Bishop*N. Butkevich A. Donnelly J. Donnelly B. HansonMn. Hogden Mt. Hogden J. Jarrah J. Kharzeev*J. Lee* A. Miller* Chinese: N. DiFiore, J. Donnelly, J. Lee, D. Lovetro, A. Palma
Trepak: J. Cozzo, F. Dennehy, Mn. Hogden, L. Pirraglia, S. Santarsiero Cossack: S. Santarsiero, A. Franquiero, J. Virnelli
Bo Peep: J. Bergold, N. Butkevich, A. DonnellySheep: D. Atoian, A. Aube, A. Caraiani, L. Caraiani, S. Cipriano, K. Donetski, J. Jaramillo, E. Pyrros, Gr. Sagona, B. Volpicella
Lamb Chop: B. Harrigan, M. Martufi
Mother Ginger: L. LamendolaPolichinelles
K. Allgaier, D. Baranowski, M. Brand, M. ButkevichL. Caraiani S. Cipriano F. Dennehy K. DonetskiM. Essex A. Fetzer A. Franquiero B. HansonMn. Hogden J. Jaramillo J. Jarrah S. MosheJ. Virnelli B. Volpicella (cont’d)
Intermission
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Proud to SupportSeiskaya Ballet
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ClownsS. Bonventre H. Gerstein M. Hutchinson G. PalminteriJ. Rosenthal-Vincenti J. Schouten K. Sparacio I. Zimmerman
Dew Drop: Gi. Sagona, K. Diaz, J. Donnelly
Flowers (*Soloists)D. Atoian A. Aube J. Bergold A. BerlingieriE. Bishop N. Butkevich A. Caraiani A. Chenery*F. Dennehy A. Donnelly J. Donnelly* B. HansonMt. Hogden J. Jarrah B. Jimenez J. Kharzeev*D. Lovetro* A. Miller* M. Mursch A. Palma*L. Pirraglia E. Pyrros Gr. Sagona A. SimmonsM. Tonns
Cavalier: Nicholas Coppula
After each matinee, there is an autographsession in the theater’s lobby.
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TO ALL OF THE SE ISKAYA CAST W I S H I N G Y O U A B E A U T I F U L H O L I D A Y S E A John Cunni f fe A r c h i t e c t s S 11 Stony Brook Avenue, Stony Brook, NY O
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Come in and enjoy a thoughtfully prepared meal, friendly service, relaxed and casual dining perhaps over a glass
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Credits
Nutcracker Webmaster Karin EngelRehearsal Assistants Nicole DiFiore, Jade Donnelly,
Alexandra PalmaAssistant Costume Mistress Carol AdamoCostume Design & Execution Kathy Baker, Birgitta Bergeman,
Ronni Camhi, Sue DiFiore, Karen Kralik, Kathi Kwiecinski,
Vaso Mavrianos, Laura Schifano,Caroline Wilks
Costume Detailing Carol Adamo, Sarah Adamo,Kathy Amella, Katie Amella,
Nicole DiFioreAudio Recording Engineer Andrew NittoliSculptures/Art Work Matt Targon/Bill MeehanProps Mike Kaminski, Joe Markowski, Al Morel, Ed Rogienski, Paul Weiner Props Manager Philip SagonaStage Crew Pat Adamo, David Essex,
Tom Fitzgerald, Mike Harrigan,Philip Sagona
Green Room Supervisors Patty Miller, Irina Kharzeev,Kerry Lovetro, Tammy Davies,
Lorna JaramilloScenery Painted by Scenic Art Studios, Inc., Norwalk, CTScenery Design Assistant Anita WasilewskaChoreography, Spanish Dance Loretta CelitanAdministrative Services Karin Engel, Pam Donnelly,
Lorna Jaramillo, Lisa LeeProgram Proof Reading Lisa Lee, Marta Cassara,
Melaine Gonzalez, Mike HarriganPhotography Sergey Butkevich, Patty MillerElectronic Imaging Pat Adamo, Patty MillerElectronic Detailing Jose Gonzalez
We would like to acknowledge all those not listed here without whosecontribution these performances would not have been possible.
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VALIA SEISKAYARussian-born Valia Seiskaya took her first ballet lessons in Greece at the age of six. Her teacher was Adam Morianoff, also a Russian émigré. (Valia was experiencing difficulty learning Greek; thus, it was natural for her mother to seek out a fellow countryman.) At nine she became a scholarship student, showing prodigious technique—for ex-ample, entrechat huit, eight beats, in centre—by age ten. Pointe work also started at ten, character ballet at twelve. Thereafter, Mme. Seiskaya rapidly developed the combination of strong technique and high elevation which would become her hallmark
as a professional.
At fifteen Valia continued her training under Sonia Morianova, the niece of Adam Morianoff, who had recently retired from the National Opera of Greece. She became a member of the National Opera at seventeen, soon attaining the rank of featured soloist, and touring Europe and Russia with the company. At the National Theater her preparation continued under resident ballet masters and choreographers, including the Bolshoi’s Asaf Messerer, Boris Kniazev, Nina Kyrsanova and Olympia Yelodari (former judge at the International Ballet Competitions held in Varna, Bulgaria and Moscow).
In Greece, as in most European countries, ballet students wishing to become professionals must pass comprehensive national level examinations and ob-tain a license. Mme. Seiskaya has fulfilled all her requirements and has been granted both a diploma and a license.
The Seiskaya Ballet School was founded in 1974, one year after Mme. Seis-kaya retired from the National Opera of Greece. At that time she taught all fifteen class sections. In 1976 Studio A was doubled in size to its present 2,500 square feet, and in 1981 Studio B was opened, adding another 1,500 square feet to the dance facility. That year also saw the establishment of the Seiskaya Ballet Academy.
Seiskaya Ballet School continues to be one of the premier institutions of its kind, offering classical and character ballet for the non-career-oriented dancer. The School offers an open-class format, where students are encour-aged to explore fulfillment through dance. Expanded in September 2007, the School was supplanted by OPEN which provides pre-Academy and adult
To all the dancers and their families, Happy Holidays and Congratulations
on a timeless tradition.
The Carrero-Sagona Family
Harbor Country Day School is a coeducational preparatory school serving students from PreK 3s to Grade 8 since 1958.
Congratulations to our Seiskaya Ballet Students
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classes utilizing the Academy staff and facilities.
The Seiskaya Ballet Academy is designed as a professional training program for serious dancers who display the determination, physical attributes and musicality of the career-oriented dancer. Admission to the Academy is by audition only. Since the inception of the Seiskaya Ballet programs, over sixty students have opted for professional careers.
All Seiskaya students are encouraged to participate in the guest teacher and summer workshop programs offered by the Ballet Education and Scholar-ship Fund, Inc. (BESFI). As part of their professional preparation, Academy students’ participation in auditions for company schools and major dance companies are routinely encouraged.
Seiskaya students have compiled an outstanding record of achievement. Through the years, full scholarships have been awarded by every major institution for which they have auditioned, including schools affiliated with American Ballet Theatre (ABT), New York City Ballet, and the San Francisco, Houston, Joffrey, Pacific Northwest, Pittsburgh, Miami, and Boston Ballets. Some of the numerous dance companies Seiskaya students have joined: ABT (5), Atlanta Ballet (2), Fort Worth, Ballet West, Eliot Feld Ballet, Bal-let Memphis, Ballet Austin, Boston (2), Milwaukee (3), New Jersey, Pacific Northwest, Pittsburgh, Royal Swedish, State Ballet of Missouri, Tennessee, Louisville and Tulsa Ballets. In 1994 Seiskaya student Michael Cusumano captured a bronze medal and Special Commendation at the International Ballet Competition (IBC) in Varna, Bulgaria and a coveted Jury Award (a gold medal-level award) at the Prix de Danse, Paris, France. Valia Seiskaya was nominated that year as the Best Teacher and Coach at Varna, one of the few Americans ever to be so honored.
In 1996 Kirov student Rasta Thomas, coached by Valia Seiskaya, reached the pinnacle: a gold medal in the Men’s Junior Division at the 17th IBC, Varna, Bulgaria. Incredibly, he was the first American male dancer ever to win a Junior Division gold and the youngest male dancer ever to do so. In addition, his triumph ended a sixteen-year stretch in which no gold medal was awarded in the Junior Men’s Division.
In 1998 Seiskaya student Elizabeth McGrath established herself as one of America’s potential stars. She represented the U.S. in the 18th IBC in Varna, Bulgaria distinguishing herself by advancing to the semifinal round. In late
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‘98, she was a top finalist in the 8th Concours International de Danse de Paris, France and won double gold at the inaugural YAGP. In 2009, Anna Craddock captured the Grand Prize in the 9th Hellas International Dance Competition and in 2011, garnered 1st place in the American Ballet Competition in Texas.
Additional exemplary efforts in the international arena include those by Alexandra Kastrinos, Allison Wade, Eileen Houghton, Johanna Hsu, Sophie Vanier, Amy Wilks, Karen Lynch, and Lesli Lyon. Seiskaya students have captured more than twenty national and regional awards, including those from the National Arts and Letters Competition; National Arts Recognition and Tal-ent Competition (Presidential Scholar in the Arts); Saraband, Ltd; the Amilita Hoffman Memorial Ballet Competition and American Ballet Competition.
During her 17 year professional career with the National Opera of Greece, Mme. Seiskaya gained an affinity for the grand sweep of story-line ballets and operas staged by the company. Her own choreographic works reflect that interest such as: Street People, Las Damiselas, Forest, MASK, and the Nut-cracker. Fresh interpretations of classical favorites La Boutique Fantasque, Walpurgis Night and A Night on Bald Mountain complement her signature ensemble works Grand Waltz, Seasons and Dance of the Hours.
Valia Seiskaya is listed in Who’s Who Among Outstanding Americans, was The Village Times 1985 Woman of the Year in the Arts and in 2011, was elected to the Long Island Volunteer’s Hall of Fame. She has received commendations from President Reagan, Governor Pataki and Congressman Forbes.
Embarking on its 20th season, the Seiskaya Nutcracker has established itself as the premiere event of its kind on Long Island. Total cumulative attendance eclipsed 88,500 last season.
LATECOMERS will be seated at ap-propriate intervals in the program as predetermined by Seiskaya Ballet and the theater’s management. Viewing monitors are available in the lobby for those awaiting seating.SOUND RECORDINGS, VIDEO- TAPING AND/OR PHOTOGRAPH-ING of any performance without writ-ten permission of the management is forbidden by law.
DOCTORS who expect to be called during a performance may give their pager/seat number to an usher who will notify the House Manager.NO FOOD OR BEVERAGES are permitted in the theater.SMOKING is strictly prohibited.NUTCRACKER MERCHANDISE may be purchased in the lobby during intermission and either before or after the performances.
Procedural Notes
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Congratulations to the entire cast of the Nutcracker
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Join Seiskaya Ballet again in 2015 on Friday, May 15th at 7PM and Saturday, May 16th at 2PM when the Ballet Education and Scholarship Fund, Inc. benefit performances will be presented by the Seiskaya Ballet. Returning for BESFI’s 36th season at the Staller Center, the program will feature a one-act ballet, vibrant character dances plus an exciting series of pas de deux. To join our mailing list call 631-584-0192, email us at [email protected] or write: Seiskaya Ballet; 7 Flowerfield Suite 16; St. James, New York 11780. Auditions for the Seiskaya Ballet Academy are available throughout the year by making an audition reservation at the above phone number. Applicants must be properly attired, with females, if applicable, requiring pointe shoes. A nonrefundable audition charge of $25.00 will be collected at the time of the audition.
The 2015 BESFI Intensive Summer Workshop will be held from July 20th through August 28th. The program will continue the three division format in 2014 which allows students more flexibility in scheduling and is an alternative to sleep-away-camps. As always, an outstanding teaching staff will be featured. In its 30+ years, the workshop has attracted such noted instructors as Andre Kramarevsky, Jurgen Schneider, Luis Fuente, Marianna Tcherkassky, Eleanor D’Antuono, Lupe Serrano, Marjorie Tallchief and Cynthia Harvey. When available, students may opt for an abbreviated schedule or simply pay by the class. Class placement priority is given to students attending the entire program. Scholarships are available through an open competition which is tentatively scheduled for May 31, 2015. Details will be available on request by writing BESFI, P.O. Box 2146, St. James, New York 11780 or by visiting www.besfi.com.
LI’S MASTER SUMMER WORKSHOPJuly 20 to August 28
Scholarship CompetitionMay 31, 2015
Information: (631) 584-0192 or www.besfi.com
BESFI 2015
Classical Ballet Technique, Variations, Contemporary, Pas de Deux,
Pointe, Turns, Beats & Port de Bras
Faculty (subject to change) MARY CARPENTER ELEANOR D’ANTUONO RHODIE JORGENSON EILEEN HOUGHTON
VASO KIKNA TBA
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