5 things to know about "The Nutcracker" this year

2020 has been a year like no other, and the annual UNCSA production of “The Nutcracker” is no exception. The beloved performance has been reimagined and reinvented for film, and for the first time will be streamed to audiences worldwide throughout the holiday season.

The Opening Night Scholarship Benefit on December 12 is your first opportunity to see the film, with its wide release following on December 17. Here’s what to expect when you visit the Land of Sweets this year:

1. “The Nutcracker” was filmed on campus at UNCSA

Sound stage six in the School of Filmmaking was the primary filming location for “The Nutcracker” this fall. Spread over several weekends of production in October, other locations included the Office of Advancement and Agnes de Mille Theatre.

2. The Nutcracker Prince has a fresh new look

Hello, blue and white! The 2020 Nutcracker Prince is costumed differently than in year’s past, and the headpiece is from Interim Dean Jared Redick’s personal collection. As you watch the film, try to spot a few other costumes that have been updated.

3. Masks were added for safety

To keep students, faculty and staff safe, masks were required for everyone on set — including the dancers. You’ll see beautiful masks in “The Nutcracker,” styled to match each dancer’s costume. 

4. You won’t see the orchestra, but you’ll hear them

While you can’t peek into the pit at the Stevens Center this year, you will hear the student orchestra perform. Musicians recorded an abridged version of Tchaikovsky’s iconic score in September, using striped sections. Learn more about their process in the video below: 

5. A prologue narration was written for the production

T’was a big Christmas party, on Christmas eve night… School of Dance faculty member and director and choreographer of this year's production Ilya Kozadayev wrote a prologue for “The Nutcracker,” which you’ll hear narrated by award-winning actor Rosemary Harris.

by Hannah Callaway

Get the best news, performance and alumni stories from UNCSA.
SUBSCRIBE TO OUR NEWSLETTERS

PS) If you read this far, here's a special tip: Watch all of the credits when the "Nutcracker" film is over!