REVIEWS of "The Nutcracker"
“In the competitive world of rival ‘Nutcracker’ productions, there are Nutcrackers grand and Nutcrackers wacky, but when it comes to imaginative ones, the David Taylor Dance Theatre has a sure bet. There can be few productions quite so visually arresting as that of the DTDT. Designed by George Peters, the sets and costumes reinforce Taylor’s choreographic ideas: that the ballet is a dream, that dreams follow their own, often surreal, rules, and that there is a blend of terror and joy and of happiness and regret. It is a brightly conceived and danced show.”
Glenn Giffin, The Denver Post
“The Christmas ballet classic ‘The Nutcracker’ is not synonymous with creativity. But then comes along a production of the family ballet like that of the David Taylor Dance Theatre. They showed that with sufficient artistic vision you can take a ballet as infinitely world-weary as ‘The Nutcracker’ and make it glow with charm and wit. While the production would have been slightly diminished without the sets and costumes of George Peters, it would not have been so thoroughly witty and intelligent without the choreography of David Taylor. The ballet is shot through with small touches of humor. The result is while children will be delighted by the whimsy and fantasy of the piece, adults will be equally engaged by its gentle self-irony. The unique use of color makes us appreciate every aspect of the visual texture of the ballet. The result is equally elegant and delectable.”
Devorah Knaff, The Long Beach Press-Telegram
“…Taylor’s bright, bold ‘Nutcracker’ is a treat for the eyes. George Peters’ inventive sets are complemented by an equally stunning costume design. The result is memorable. This bold look fits nicely with Taylor’s unorthodox story line. Rather than send young Clara off to dreamland after the endless opening-scene party, Taylor turns the entire ballet into a dream. It’s a terrific idea.”
Marc Shulgold, The Denver Rocky Mountain News
“The David Taylor Dance Theatre did a sophisticated takeoff on the standard version of ‘The Nutcracker’ and should please those who are looking for more adult fare. Taylor made a parody of the traditional entertainment and the design of costumes by George Peters was extraordinary. The dancing combined strong expression, purity, clocklike precision, and athletic command. All told, this version is an irreverently entertaining variation of the original. The production was happily received, as it well deserved, with its visual treats and ample supply of rich choreography and dancing. I recommend it for seasoned Nutcracker fans.”
Sarah Manno, The Fort Collins Coloradoan
“Thank you so much for yet another wonderful performance of ‘The Nutcracker’. As you know, our show was a sellout and we are, of course, thankful and glad it’s an event that leaves the audience happy, satisfied and ready to enter the holiday season. I think your version of this age-old story is one of the best. The costumes, staging and sets are beautiful, the dancing excellent, the whole show is magical; and I absolutely love your contemporary additions.”
Ronna Kalish, Director, New Mexico Tech
“So what do you do when you’ve seen Tchaikovsky’s ‘The Nutcracker’ hundreds of times, danced it, taken your children and grandchildren to see it, know every step, every note of music and can sing it in your sleep? You go again – this time to see the David Taylor Dance Theatre production which happily, is quite unlike anything seen previously. It’s highly possible to keep ‘The Nutcracker’ creatively fresh and alive. David Taylor’s innovative production showed that updating is necessary and good. I have no doubt that Peter Ilyich Tchaikovsky would approve.”
Rachel Pollack, The Cherry Creek Times
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