Nutcracker Magic Comes to Essex Library

The Sugarplum Fairy passes out treats to her fans at the Essex Library’s holiday Nutcracker event, featuring dancers from the Eastern Connecticut Ballet’s company (Photo courtesy of Jessica Branciforte)

The Essex Library welcomed a visit from Clara, the Sugarplum Fairy, and the Nutcracker Prince last week, when members of the Eastern Connecticut Ballet appeared for an enchanted evening of music, dance, and story-telling. An enraptured audience of children and parents listened to a reading of “The Nutcracker”, then got to watch real, live dancers demonstrate ballet, and even join in themselves.

This program was a gift from Eastern Connecticut Ballet to the community, who are marking their 10^th Anniversary Nutcracker at The Garde Arts Center in New London. Performances are December 10 at 1:30 and 7:00 p.m. and December 11 at 1:30 p.m., an ideal holiday treat for families. Sets and costumes transport you to 1850 New London while the legendary music of Tchaikovsky is performed by the Eastern Connecticut Symphony Orchestra. For tickets: call 860 444-7373 or online at www.gardearts.org.