FPAC to Present THE NUTCRACKER, 12/5-6

The Franklin Performing Arts Company (FPAC) proudly presents The Nutcracker, bringing special guest artists, world-class musicians and more than 100 area dancers to one suburban stage. FPAC invites audiences to fall under Drosselmeyer's dreamy spell and join Clara and her Nutcracker Prince on a journey full of surprises and wonder. A popular holiday tradition for more than two decades, The Nutcracker remains a highly anticipated and treasured part of the FPAC season. Set to Tchaikovsky's beloved score, the timeless ballet delights the imaginations of audiences young and old with festive magic and colorful splendor. FPAC presents The Nutcracker on Saturday, December 5 at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, December 6 at 2 p.m. at the Franklin High School auditorium, 218 Oak Street, in Franklin.

FPAC's magical journey of The Nutcracker features a professional orchestra under the direction of Peter Cokkinias, who celebrates his 12th year as music director/conductor of FPAC's Nutcracker orchestra. Guest artists Vilia Putrius and Mindaugas Bauzys, company dancers with Festival Ballet Providence, will perform the roles of the Sugar Plum Fairy and her Cavalier. Dr. Drosselmeyer will be played by Aaron Andrade of Lincoln, Rhode Island. A choir will sing the ethereal choral parts that accompany the enchanting Snow Scene that closes the ballet's first act.

FPAC's production also showcases the talents of scores of area students, ages 6 and older, from many regional communities and local dance schools. Performers cast in featured roles include Hannah Rezendes of Franklin as Clara; Ty Gavin of Bridgewater as Fritz; Shaina McGillis of Franklin as Dew Drop (Saturday), Candy Cane Soloist (Sunday) and Nutcracker; Kendra Dombroski of Franklin as Dew Drop (Sunday) and Arabian Soloist (Saturday); Noura Sander of Easton as Snow Queen and Spanish Soloist; Lauren Szczepanowski of Franklin as Mouse Queen and Candy Cane Soloist (Saturday); Mia Antunovic of North Attleboro as Kissy Doll (Sunday) and Chinese Soloist; Sarah Strock of Holliston as Harlequin (Saturday) and Candy Cane Soloist (Sunday); Ally Lynch of Medway as Soldier Doll and Candy Cane Soloist (Saturday); Haley Desjarlais of Medway as Soldier Doll and Arabian Soloist (Sunday); Mikaela Guidice of Norfolk as Kissy Doll (Saturday) and Marzipan Soloist; and Alli Tomsik of Medway as Harlequin (Sunday) and Marzipan Soloist.

FPAC's The Nutcracker is choreographed and directed by Cheryl Madeux, who formerly danced with the Joffrey Ballet, Hartford Ballet and American Ballet Theatre companies. Additional choreography is by Casey Harkness Andrade and Clyde Nantais. Marina Van Winkle is rehearsal assistant for Cherubs and Marzipan Corp.

Founded in 1991, the nonprofit FPAC supports educational arts experiences, quality entertainment and outstanding performance opportunities for professional artists, community performers and students of the arts. With a focus on youth development and a commitment to live music, FPAC celebrates its 25th anniversary this season. Rockland Trust Charitable Foundation is FPAC's Premier Sponsor. Big Y and Waters Corporation are FPAC 2015 Holiday Sponsors. Tickets are $30-$34. For tickets and more information, visit www.THEBLACKBOXonline.com or www.FPAConline.com or call (508) 528-3370.