Nimbus Dance Works to Present JERSEY CITY NUTCRACKER, 12/16-20

Nimbus Dance Works, Jersey City's acclaimed professional dance company, will take the stage with ten performances of its beloved production, Jersey City Nutcracker. Jersey City Nutcracker's unique retelling of this classic tale illustrates two children's urban holiday adventure filled with fantasy, adversity and celebration with underlying themes of community and friendship. Choreographed and directed by Nimbus Artistic Director Samuel Pott, the adaption of Tchaikovsky's renowned holiday ballet is performed by a cast of professional dancers from Nimbus Dance Works who portray familiar characters such as the Sugar Plum Fairy, the Rat King, the Arabian Princess and Drosselmeyer, joined by youth and adults from the community- all with a Jersey City twist! New for 2014 is the "Waltz of the Flowers...Or Whatever" section featuring Nimbus Youth Ensemble Pre-Professional students. With colorful life-size sets designed by Jersey City artist, Irene Borngraeber, sumptuous costumes by Jennifer Bentley, and a glittering tree, youth and adults alike will be touched by this tale of holiday spirit. Surprise guests and local celebrities make unforgettable cameo appearances... Stay tuned!

Thanks to Goldman Sachs as the Title Sponsor, Jersey City Nutcracker is one of the largest annual performing arts events in the region. Performances will involve youth performers drawn from the School of Nimbus Dance Works and the dance programs of the Jersey City Public Schools. Over 2,000 school children attend special school-time matinee performances. Jersey City's Department of Health and Human Services will provide tickets to 300 local senior citizens. Jersey City public school students will perform important roles in the production and will gain real-world experience assisting with backstage, front-of-house and set construction work.

For last minute holiday shoppers: a pop-up gift boutique in the lobby of the performance will feature unique, handmade items and gifts for sale made by local artists and craftspeople.