Nutcracker Memories

 Ever since I was a little girl, I’ve loved to dance. Whether I was in my kitchen or at the studio, if there was music on, I would be dancing. Although I love performing all styles, the Nutcracker will always be a special production to me. I remember waiting year after year to perform in the Nutcracker, finally becoming a snow tree in the second grade. I was so amazed by the grace and beauty of the Snow Queen that I would stand up straighter, or point my toes harder whenever she was in the room.
I’ve always looked up to the older dancers as my biggest role models, and dancing with them inspired me to keep training in ballet until it would be my time to dance in the spotlight. After a decade of training performances, I’m going to dance in my final Nutcracker this December as the Sugarplum Fairy. After so many years of performing in the Nutcracker, it is surreal that this will be my last. I hope to inspire other young dancers to pursue a love for ballet, as so many of the dancers before have done for me.
Throughout the years, Nutcracker has always been a holiday tradition that I look forward to. Clara’s unceasing love for her nutcracker and her adventure to the Land of Sweets is such a heartwarming story, and I’m so glad that I got to be a part of it. The unconditional love and support by all my teachers and fellow dancers have made the entire experience unforgettable. I hope you will add some joy to your holiday season by coming to Dance Studio 84’s production of the Nutcracker and watch the story come to life.
Ashley Malloy is a senior at Hart High School. DS84 Nutcracker tickets on sale now at www.dancestudio84.com. For more information, please call 661-775-7655. Dance Studio 84 is located at 27889 Smyth Drive in Valencia. Hope to see you there!