Northwest Ohio—A Community of Talent Directed by Findlay, Ohio native, Hayley Havener, Masha and the Nutcracker delights audiences through its endearing storyline, moments of comedy, dynamic staging, dazzling costuming and beautiful dancing. The storyline is the Black Swamp Fine Arts School’s original adaptation of the Tchaikovsky ballet and is set in the composer’s native Russia. The cast is a tapestry of local artists and performers, featuring students from The Black Swamp Fine Arts School, members of the faculty team, and the school’s Resident Artists and alumni. The production also invites to the stage professional dancers Matthew and Lydia Havener and Rebekah Proshek.
Synopsis—A Tale of Wonder & Dreams The story begins in the year 1816 on Christmas Eve. The young Vsevolozhsky children eagerly await the arrival of their guests. To pass the time the children trek down to the river to ice skate. They even attempt to sneak into the living room where their parents, the maid, and butler are working tirelessly to prepare for the party. As the party commences and the family reunites, the atmosphere in the house is electric with joy. Excitement fills the hearts of all as Uncle Ivanov, everyone’s favorite uncle, unveils his travel trunk, brimming with carefully chosen gifts for each family member. As the parcels are distributed and admired, one person is especially intrigued by the history and charm of each item— Masha.
From the depths of his magical trunk emerge exotic silks, fragrant spices, delectable chocolates, and aromatic coffee, tantalizing the senses of every party-goer. Delicately-decorated marzipan cakes and sweet Russian pastilla are quickly gobbled up by the little children. An odd German nutcracker cracks open walnuts for all to savor. But amidst all of the trunk’s treasures, it is this nutcracker that captures Masha's heart and imagination.
As the evening's party festivities end, guests return to their homes, and the children are tucked into their beds for a restful night's sleep. But the gifts from Uncle Ivanov are so extraordinary that they inspire vivid dreams in Masha. In slumber, Masha embarks on a thrilling journey—a fierce battle between gingerbread cookies and a wicked mouse queen, a swirling adventure through the blizzard, and a magical arrival in a distant land. In this dream world, flowers dance, cookies reside in quaint homes, and her beloved German nutcracker transforms into a gallant prince. But one question lingers: Does this enchanting land truly exist?
Theater Production Event Details The stage for this Christmas fairytale is the majestic Marathon Center for the Performing Arts in Findlay, Ohio. Black Swamp Fine Arts School’s Executive Director, Sophia Jarrell, states, “The theater’s grandeur creates the perfect backdrop for a production of this caliber. As you enter the theater, you will be transported into the world of Masha and the Nutcracker, where dreams do come to life!” The evening performance on Friday, December 15th is at 7:30 PM. On Saturday, December 16th the matinee is at 3:00 PM and the evening performance is at 7:00 PM.
A Performance Designed for Young Audiences Members In addition to the full performances, Masha and the Nutcracker is presented in a Toddler-Friendly Performance. Taking place at 1:00 PM on Saturday, December 16th, this abbreviated adaptation of the original production is tailored to our littlest audience members. With a length of approximately 30 minutes, the performance is the perfect length for toddlers' attention spans! Although this performance is designed specifically to be welcoming for very young children, children of all ages will revel in the show!
During the Toddler-Friendly Performance, the auditorium will be more brightly lit, the music will be quieter, and the delightful sounds of toddler squeals, chatter, and giggles are welcome! It is a relaxed performing arts experience in which families can watch the show without worrying about their little ones expressing their excitement. Immediately following the Toddler-Friendly Performance, audience members will have the unique opportunity to meet cast members, creating cherished memories for both children and parents alike!
Secure your tickets now at mcpa.org or by calling 419.423.2787 ex. 100.
