This column was published in the Wednesday (12.7.05) edition of the Tribune & Georgian newspaper.
Sometimes inspiration comes in the most unique ways. Witnessing the National Bulgarian Radio Children’s Choir sing Battle Hymn of the Republic with crystal clear young voices and glorious harmony, knowing that the children had full innocence of any knowledge of its meaning, yet seeing them thoroughly transfixed by its power, began my week with inspiration and moist eyes. The only problem is, I will never be able to say “thank you.” After beginning on that high note, however, I am confident life has good things to offer this season; just one more benefit of artistic expression and being an audience to its influence.
Each year about this time, particular dreams start to be realized. Visions of sugar plum fairies, dueling mice and handsome princes become real in studios, school cafeterias, and on theatre stages throughout the world. The music is so familiar that it may now be ingrained in our genome. Little girls joyfully endure become “bun heads” for a time; little boys gleefully play at sword fights. Tights, dance slippers and rehearsals consume afternoons, evenings and weekends for millions of children, adults and teachers for months on end. And then The Nutcracker, in all its incarnations, versions, and iterations, happens. You can find it in the smallest burgs and on the largest, grandest of stages in just about every country in the world. The story is timeless; the movement captivating, graceful and powerful. Set to Tchaikovsky’s first opus, from the beauty of the adagio and pas de deux to the strength and control of the grand jete, audiences realize that stories like this were meant to be told through dance and music conjoined. You can share a portion of this worldwide phenomenon at our local high school auditorium on Saturday (Dec. 10) at 1:30 and 6:30 p.m. Choreographed by Monica Harris and her teachers at Just Dance, local dancers from a number of area studios are featured performers in this second annual Nutcracker. Better yet, take a child that has never seen it and, when you can take your eyes off the athletes (that’s right, the athletes!) on stage, sneak a peek at their face. You will receive your best ever holiday gift. Tickets are $10 and you can get them at the door; call 882-7500 for more details.
On Saturday evening (12.10) from 6 – 9 p.m., you will want to join in St. Marys annual Tour of Homes sponsored by Arts Camden and St. Marys Tourism. This year’s Tour features more than 21 homes and businesses in the St. Marys historic village, including some new sites that have not been featured in previous year’s Tours. This year’s Tour include’s visits to eight historic St. Marys homes, as well as stops at local inns, B & B’s, and museums. You’ll be able to experience this year’s tour more conveniently by tram and tour bus. The Tour begins and ends at St. Marys First Presbyterian Church, on Conyers St. Contact the St. Marys Tourism office at 882-4000 for information; tickets are $10 in advance at local merchant locations or $12 at the door.
Other best bets for this week and next weekend: African Children’s Choir at Southside United Methodist Church, 12.7, 6 p.m. (free concert; voices of hope from children who have lost parents to war, disease, and famine); movie buffs will head to the new film version of C. S. Lewis’ classic, beloved tale The Chronicles of Narnia due in theatres on 12.9; The First Coast Nutcracker with the Jacksonville Symphony Ballet at the Times Union Center, 12.9-11 (grand ballet); Community Nutcracker at the Florida Theatre, 12.9-10 (grand ballet); A Christmas Carole at Alhambra Dinner Theatre, through 12.24 (a holiday tradition featuring Tiny Tim and Scrooge); free holiday music at the TubaChristmas Concert, Jacksonville Landing, Sat.12.10, 2 p.m. (it will be wonderful! I’ve seen them in Atlanta and Tampa – bravo!)
There are lots more fascinating holiday events; send me a note at pkraack1@tds.net if you think our readers would enjoy knowing about it.
12.7.05
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