Coastal Youth Ballet Theatre

What production of "The Nutcracker" would be complete without a cast
of children? Whereas we may think that the integration of children into
ballet is a relatively new idea, it was actually more common in previous
centuries. The great companies of Europe and Russia regularly used
young students in the corps de ballet and as "extras." They were regarded
as cute and cheap and, furthermore, the pleasure of performing on stage
gave them incentive to work at their lessons. Many became stars before
they were adolescents. As an example, the famous Fanny Essler is
depicted in a watercolor at the tender age of 12, as a professional posed
en pointe. Ballerina Marie Salle made her debut in London at age 9,
dancing with her brother in a Harlequin pas de deux.

Coastal Youth Ballet Theatre's "Nutcracker" co-production with the Palace
Theatre on December 7 and 8, involves the area's most dedicated and hardworking
cast of children. These young members who come from the Georgetown, Horry,
Columbus and Florence counties are featured as the Party scene kids, Mice,
Solders, Flurries, the Angels, Bon Bons, Chinese Tea Sweets, Candy Canes and
Rosebuds. For these children, participation in the production requires a lot of
energy, a serious physical and emotional commitment and dedication to the work
at hand. Commitment to be a cast member demands flexibility, patience, support
and understanding from cast members themselves as well as their families.
Then too, CYBT's Nutcracker cast members get the opportunity to work with
experienced and dedicated teachers and guest artists. This year's cast members are
fortunate to have the chance to perform with guest artists of one of South
Florida's esteemed professional company, the Cuban Classical Ballet of Miami.
CYBT alumnus, Bailey Moon, who has distinguished himself as a gifted dance
artist not just locally but nationally as well, will perform the role of the
Nutcracker Prince.

In and of themselves, CYBT's "Nutcracker" production is an invaluable learning experience for these
young people and a chance for them to share their love of the art to the community through
their performances.

"The Nutcracker" goes on stage at the Palace Theatre
December 7, 3 pm and 7 pm
December 8 at 10 am.
Tickets to CYBT's "The Nutcracker" - Box Office 843 448-0588 or Toll Free 800-905-4228
Groups of 15 or more 843-626-8927 or Toll Free 866 -247-6877
For more about Coastal Youth Ballet Theatre and the Palace Theatre, please visit their websites:
www.coastalyouthballettheatre.org
www.palacetheatremyrtlebeach.com