Salisbury’s ‘Nutcracker’ Is A True Community Effort
Full disclosure, I’m not a ballet guy. Not that I don’t respect the amazing talent of the performers, I’m just more of a pay a ticket for a ballgame or concert guy. That being said, I remember Mom dragging me kicking and screaming to see the Houston Ballet’s production of “The Nutcracker” as a kid. When I walked out, I can’t say I had a bad time. In fact, probably couldn’t bring myself to admit how much I enjoyed it.
This past weekend a good friend of mine who was a dancer all through college fulfilled a lifelong dream to see “The Nutcracker” as performed by the New York Ballet. These two things were fresh on my mind when I saw the story of The Salisbury Community Nutcracker. Emphasis on the word, “community.” This is truly a group effort.
Each year, right before Christmas, students from Salisbury High School team up with the elementary school kids to put on “The Nutcracker.” Along with Marching Hornets band members, all work together to provide a part for everyone.
For example, the Salisbury Post tells of Amoni Bellamy and Sah-Rinity Reevey. These two are third graders at Hurley Elementary. The Salisbury Community’s “Nutcracker” gave them a couple of nights they’ll never forget as “dancing snowflakes.”
“It felt amazing,” Bellamy said. “My family came and saw me dancing … and brought me flowers.”
And that’s just one story. This “troupe” is full of them. I can’t imagine anything that screams true, community, Christmas spirit like The Salisbury Community’s “Nutcracker.”
The performance is made possible through the partnership with Triple Threat Dance Company. The Rowan Arts Council also joined Communities in Schools in sponsoring the event, which was assisted by the Community Arts Foundation.
4 Great Christmas Dinner Options For The Whole Family
Lasagna
A large tray of a baked pasta based meal that everyone gets to cut into just feels like a natural option. There’s room here to customize your tray of course. Add meat, make it a veggie, or have one of each. Plus, the red sauce nicely compliments your holiday-themed table setting.
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Filet Mignon
We’ll need to clarify here, your best bet here is a log shaped filet that can be evenly cut into quarter inch – to half inch slices. There’s something festive to carving a meal item in your kitchen, that is freshly cooked. You take pride in hosting and then slicing. You place your sliced filet on that serving platter that is used just once a year, walk it into the dining room and then feel joy when everyone digs in.
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Vegetarian Chili Bar
It’s all about the slow-cooker or crock pot. You can let it warm in the kitchen all day, allowing a sharp aroma to seep into every room the family gathers in. This style is for more of the grab something quick and on-the-go Christmas meal gathering. Perhaps you have people in and out of your house, stopping by for a “cheers” throughout the day. A chili bar never disappoints. Add in your side bowls of shredded cheddar, tortilla crisps, scallions, and sour cream, and you are giving your guests the opportunity to put their own touch on your creation.
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Baked Ham
This is the meal that gives you the option for a fancier sit-down dinner. The ham centerpiece is typically joined by elegant wine glasses and pre-feast toast. Throw some potato side dishes along with an asparagus or string bean casserole, and your living room is now a fine-dining restaurant. This meal allows you to take your time. The next thing you know, it’s dark outside, and you are putting a bow on your enjoyable Christmas night.
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