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1west hartford’s premier ballet CompanySaturday, December 11, 1 pmSaturday, December 11, 6 pmSunday, December 12, 2 pmThe Maxwell M. and Ruth R. Belding TheaterThe Bushnell Performing Arts Center166 Capitol Ave, Hartford, CT 06106Artistic Direction Stephanie DattellasChoreography Stephanie DattellasMusic Pyotr Ilyich TchaikovskyStarring Lauren LovetteDylan WaldSarah McCahillNupur SondhiCover illustration by Soa BrummittTHE USE OF VIDEO AND AUDIO EQUIPMENT IS STRICTLY PROHIBITEDPlease silence audio devices BALLET THEATRE COMPANY 20 Jeerson Avenue, West Hartford, CT 06110 860-570-0440 • dance@dancebtc.org • www.dancebtc.orgBallet Theatre Company is a 501(c)(3) not-for-prot organization

2The Nutcracker is sponsored in part by funders and sponsorsThe George A. and Grace L.Long FoundationLaurelGraphic DesignImperial Decorating and Upholstering

Hello Friends We here at Ballet Theatre Company can barely contain the emotions that we re feeling as the company finally returns to the stage after a year and a half hiatus For many of us there is no greater experience than witnessing a production come together on stage The moment when the curtain rises the music envelops the house and the Stage Manager confidently says into their headset Dancers Go our stomachs rush to our feet and sparks fly to our eyes It is at that moment that we truly feel at home This Nutcracker is especially momentous and not only because we return to live theater but because this year we celebrate 20 years of presenting a holiday staple to the community To top it off for the first time in the company s history we will celebrate this milestone in the Maxwell M and Ruth R Belding Theater at The Bushnell If you ve been here before I am excited to share many new additions and revisions to my rendition of The Nutcracker But what I am most proud of is the passion and tireless dedication of the people who make my artistic vision possible Through the hard work and talent of our costume designers you will see several new tutus sparkle on stage Our innovative lighting and production designer will bring a new layer of dimension and creativity through 3 D projections and video that will truly take you on Clara s journey And of course without the support of my Ballet Mistress and our gifted dancers there d be no Nutcracker at all Ever thrilled and grateful to share the magic of the ballet with you Wishing you and your family a healthy and joyous holiday Enjoy the show Stephanie Dattellas Artistic Director 3 Photo by Lanny Nagler Photography

3Hello Friends,We here at Ballet Theatre Company can barely contain theemotions that we’re feeling as the company nally returnsto the stage after a year and a half hiatus. For many of us,there is no greater experience than witnessing a productioncome together on stage. The moment when the curtainrises, the music envelops the house, and the Stage Managercondently says into their headset, “Dancers, Go,” ourstomachs rush to our feet and sparks y to our eyes. It is atthat moment that we truly feel at home.This  Nutcracker is especially momentous, and not only because we return to live theater, but because this yearwe celebrate 20 years of presenting a holiday staple to thecommunity. To top it o, for the rst time in the company’shistory we will celebrate this milestone in the Maxwell M.and Ruth R. Belding Theater at The Bushnell.If you’ve been here before, I am excited to share many newadditions and revisions to my rendition of The Nutcracker. But what I am most proud of, is the passion and tireless dedicationof the people who make my artistic vision possible. Throughthe hard work and talent of our costume designers, youwill see several new tutus sparkle on stage. Our innovativelighting and production designer will bring a new layer ofdimension and creativity through 3-D projections and videothat will truly take you on Clara’s journey. And of course,without the support of my Ballet Mistress, and our gifteddancers, there’d be no Nutcracker at all.Ever thrilled and grateful to share the magic of the balletwith you.Wishing you and your family a healthy and joyous holiday.Enjoy the show,Stephanie DattellasArtistic DirectorPhoto by Lanny Nagler Photography

4the 2oth anniversary of ballet theatre company’s premiering at the bushnell’s belding theaterIn December 2002, Ballet Theatre Company accepted an invitation from The University of Saint Joseph (formerly known as Saint Joseph College) to present the college’s rst Nutcracker. The performance was subsequently held in the Homan Auditorium in the Carol Autorino Center for the Arts and Humanities for 18 years. During that time, several renditions of the holiday classic were presented by various choreographers, including; Richard Steinert, Brett Raphael, Roman Baca, and now, current Artistic Director Stephanie Dattellas.Ballet Theatre Company’s 2021 production of The Nutcracker is especially momentous. Not only will Ballet Theatre Company mark its 20th Anniversary of sharing a full-length presentation of The Nutcracker with the greater Hartford community, but for the rst time in its history, the company will make its grand debut at The Bushnell’s Belding Theater. Artistic Director Stephanie Dattellas’ enthralling rendition, featuring Hartford historic references and unique twists, will premier on the Maxwell M. and Ruth R. Belding stage of Connecticut’s premier presenter of the performing arts. “This special, 20th anniversary production will also feature the mainstage debut of our newly-inaugurated company of professional dancers, integrated with local student talent, and renowned guest artists,” says Dattellas. World-famous ballet dancer Lauren Lovette, who retired from the prestigious New York City Ballet in October, will join Ballet Theatre Company’s cast of The Nutcracker as the coveted role, the Sugar Plum Fairy. “Lauren is an incredibly talented artist, one of the ballet world’s best, and we are so excited to have her joining us on stage for this momentous premiere.” starring lauren lovette as the sugar plum fairythe nutcracker 4

5The Story of The NutcrackerChristmas Eve at the Stahlbaums’On Christmas Eve, families travel to the Stahlbaums’ house for a holiday party. The house is beautifully decorated for Christmas and Clara and her brother Fritz are eager to greet their guests. The Stahlbaums’ friends and their families enjoy a happy celebration full of dancing and mingling that is often interrupted by Cousin Phineas causing mischief among the guests. Clara’s clever Godmother Drosselmeyer, a jolly toymaker, arrives at the party bringing magic tricks and wonders. She presents two life-size dancing dolls dressed as West Hartford’s historic figure, Noah Webster, and accompanying him, a Blue Back Speller Ballerina Doll, to entertain the guests. She then presents gifts to all the children at the party surprising Clara and Fritz with two beautiful wooden Nutcracker dolls of their very own. Clara and Fritz’s friends enjoy using the Nutcrackers to crack nuts and share a treat until Cousin Phineas breaks Clara’s newly beloved gift. Drosselmeyer fixes the broken wooden doll and Clara, Fritz, and their friends enjoy dancing with their new toys. Clara’s grandfather, an eager dancer, takes the spotlight with his frantic but loving wife as they share a holiday jig. The party guests leave, saying goodnight to the Stahlbaums, and Mr. and Mrs. Stahlbaum send Clara and Fritz off to bed.The Clock Strikes MidnightGodmother Drosselmeyer appears casting her magic touch to the Nutcracker doll that had been left under the Christmas tree. Clara, remembering where her beloved doll was left, returns to the party room and falls asleep beneath the light of the Christmas tree with her doll in her arms. She then begins to dream.In Clara’s dream, two angels enter the room and sprinkle their magic dust on the Christmas tree. Twelve mice appear and tease Clara in hopes of stealing her Nutcracker. Fritz enters to find Clara very upset and Clara frantically describes the series of unusual events. Fritz agrees to help Clara search for an explanation for these strange phenomenons. Just then, Drosselmeyer appears and the Christmas tree begins to grow to twice its size! Drosselmeyer tells Clara that there will be a battle and helps prepare her and her brother by transforming their nightgowns into battle ready outfits. Battle SceneThe Nutcracker, now life-size to Clara and Fritz, enters with his wooden toy soldiers to fight off the Mouse King and his mice minions. The battle ends with the Mouse King defeated and Clara’s Nutcracker doll badly wounded. Clara, inconsolable, is surprised when Godmother Drosselmeyer enters and fixes her Nutcracker doll once again. This time, however, Drosselmeyer transforms the Nutcracker into a handsome Cavalier. Clara’s Cavalier thanks her for her help in the battle and invites her to accompany him on a journey. Clara accepts his offer and bids farewell to her brother Fritz. She is then guided by the Cavalier into the Land of the Snow.

6Land of SnowClara and her Cavalier are greeted by the Snow King and Queen and their dancing snowflakes in a winter wonderland. The Snow King and Queen then send Clara and the Cavalier to the wonderful Land of the Sweets. Land of the SweetsClara and the Cavalier are led by angels who direct them to a dreamy land of gumdrops, candy canes and sweets. The two are welcomed into the Land of the Sweets by the friendly Dew Drop Fairy who asks about their travels to her kingdom. The Cavalier tells the Dew Drop Fairy about his daring battle with the Mouse King and how Clara’s belief and a little magic brought him back to life.The Dew Drop Fairy, impressed with both of their courageous efforts, rewards Clara and the Cavalier with several ethnic dances and gifts. Chinese dancers present them with the gift of tea. Arabian dancers offer them delicious coffee. Spanish dancers present a gift of chocolate and dance with flair. Mirliton dancers bring their flutes and play beautiful music. Russian dancers impress Clara with their high energy and tricks, and Mother Ginger and her Gingerbread Cookies dance for Clara and the Cavalier while trying to avoid the hungry fox. The Dew Drop Fairy then calls her flowers and flower petals to offer a beautiful waltz in the Land of the Sweets. Clara’s Transformation and Grand Pas De DeuxClara’s ultimate dream is granted by the Dew Drop Fairy who leads Clara to a magical box where she is transformed into the Sugar Plum Fairy. Her Cavalier greets her and together they dance amongst the glistening stars. Before she leaves, all those who dwell in the Land of the Sweets bid Clara goodbye and soon fade away.Christmas MorningClara awakens the next morning drowsy and confused. She realizes that her journey was all but a dream. She runs to her Nutcracker and gazes into its eyes remembering her incredible adventures that she will never forget.The Story of The Nutcracker

72019 | Photo: Thomas Giroir7

82019 | Photo: Thomas Giroir8

9ACT 1Christmas EveParty guests travel to the house of the Stahlbaums with treats and smilesChristmas Tree Adults Victoria Jaenson (matinee) Emily Silva (evening) Ofer HarelSnowman Children Kyla ChengLeah DevorSoa WargoMary WizemanSnowman Parent Ofer HarelCousin Phineas Hunter JamesSnowball Fight Children Jade Bello _______Newspaper Reader Derek BrockingtonHappy Snow Shoveler Dashawn DavisFrantic Children Charlotte GruberLilly Jacobson _________Worried Mother Naomi LangillWorried Mother’s Children Evie Messinger _________Prissy Mother Sarah McCahillPrissy Daughter Emelia MartinezGingerbread Mother Mollie PetrizzoGrandparents Julia BurkackiIsabella O’ConnorPresents Child Quinlan GreenbaumSled #1 Ofer HarelMary WizemanSled #2 Jaime BelloNina ToyamaDrosselmeyer Gabrielle Baker

11Party SceneParty parents and children enjoy a happy holiday celebrationMother Jo-ann BurkeFather Arthur BeutelClara Nupur SondhiFritz Raviv Harel-SibelmanMaids Soa BrummittMason CaponeEva SperanzaClara’s Friends Kyla ChengLeah DevorQuinlan GreenbaumCharlotte GruberLilly JacobsonEmelia Martinez*Ellory Maynard-Byron, *Avery McClureFritz’s Friends Jade BelloKhushi GroverHunter JamesEvie MessingerElla NunezSoa Wargo*Heather Voth, *Elizabeth FournierCousin Phineas Hunter JamesGrandma Julia BurkackiGrandpa Isabella O’ConnorParty Adult Women Victoria Jaenson (matinee)Emily Silva (evening)Sarah McCahillNaomi LangillMollie Petrizzo Party Adult Men Jaime BelloDerek BrockingtonDashawn DavisOfer HarelPetite Party Children Nina ToyamaMary WizemanDrosselmeyer Gabrielle BakerNoah Webster Doll Joseph BeltreBlue Backed Speller Ballerina Doll Sophia Pirrotta*Soa Brummitt*Understudy

122019 | Photo: Thomas Giroir12

Transition Scene Clara falls asleep and dreams that she shrinks to the size of a mouse Clara Nupur Sondhi Lead Angels Claire Casey Ella Minto Baby Karate Mouse Wyatt Chenault Baby Mice Abiageal Boyle Wyatt Chenault Aria Greenbaum Mia Jacobson Riya Parekh Amelia Persa Ella Postma Mack Raissian Emily Suprenant Isla Sziabowski Anna Webb Beth Webb Fritz Raviv Harel Sibelman Drosselmeyer Gabrielle Baker Battle Scene The Nutcracker and his Soldiers fight off the Mouse King and his Mice minions Soldiers Nybol Bona Emily Collin Khushi Grover Jillian Hubbard Evie Messinger Tierney Smith Serafina Aletheia Snow Isha Sondhi Nupur Sondhi Olivia Taylor Hailey Wankier Sofia Wargo Valerie Warner Ela Kai Whalen Elizabeth Windnagle Sofia Brummitt Mason Capone Kyla Cheng Isabella O Connor Sophia Pirrotta Eva Speranza Cavalier Dylan Wald Mouse King Dashawn Davis Big Mice Kristin Bailey Asia Belton Olivia Escobales Nic Fortenbach Baby Mice Abiageal Boyle Wyatt Chenault Aria Greenbaum Mia Jacobson Riya Parekh Amelia Persa 13 Makai King Deziah Outlaw Colby White Ella Postma Mack Raissian Emily Suprenant Isla Sziabowski Anna Webb Beth Webb

142019 | Photo: Thomas Giroir14

15Land of Snow Clara and her Cavalier are greeted by the Snow King and Queen and dancing snowakes in a winter wonderlandClara Nupur SondhiFritz Raviv Harel-SibelmanDrosselmeyer Gabrielle BakerCavalier Dylan WaldSnow Queen Emily Silva (matinee)Victoria Jaenson (evening)Snowakes Soa BrummittJulia BurkackiMason CaponeIsabella O’ConnorSophia PirrottaEva SperanzaSerana SnowIsha SondhiOlivia TaylorHailey Wankier,Valerie WarnerEla Kai WhalenPenny WickwireElizabeth Windnagle*Kyla Cheng, *Jillian Hubbard, *Evie Messinger, *Soa WargoReindeer Jade BelloAluel BonaEmmanuelle HazeltonPaige O’NeillINTERMISSION

162019 | Photo: Thomas Giroir16

17Arrival to Candy MountainACT 2AngelsThe Dew Drop Fairy and Angels welcome Clara and her Cavalier to the Land of the SweetsLead Angels Claire CaseyElla MintoAngels Sahana Arulampalam Mary FournierAria GreenbaumAlyssa GreenwoodEllory Maynard-ByroRiya ParekhNicole TheraultPeyton WalshClara Nupur SondhiCavalier Dylan WaldReindeer Jade BelloAluel BonaEmmanuelle HazeltonPaige O’NeillDew Drop Fairy Sarah McCahillDew Drop Fairy Sarah McCahillFlower Corps Julia BurkackiSophia PirrottaChinese Corps Soa BrummittMason CaponeSpanish Lead Naomi Langill (matinee) Mollie Petrizzo (evening)Russian Lead Joseph BeltreMirlitons Leads Victoria JaensonEmily SilvaArabian Leads Jo-ann BurkeDerek BrockingtonGingerbread Cookies Quinlan GreenbaumLilly JacobsonHunter JamesHeather VothTrumpeters Nivadita ArulampalamLuba EuskoRowan GellerEmily HartnettReese McClureNina Toyama

18Land of the SweetsDivertissements represented in the Land of the Sweets dance for Clara and oer her giftsSpanish Lead Naomi Langill (matinee)Mollie Petrizzo (evening)Spanish Corps Isabella O’ConnorPenny Wickwire*Sophia Pirrotta, *Hailey WankierMirlitons Leads Victoria JaensonEmily Silva*Jo-ann Burke, Naomi Langill, Mollie PetrizzoMirlitons Corps Kyla ChengSerana SnowIsha SondhiOlivia TaylorElizabeth WindnagleEla Kai Whalen*Eva Speranza, *Emily Collin, *Jillian Hubbard, *Evie Messinger, *Soa WargoChinese Corps Soa BrummittJulia BurkackiMason CaponeSophia PirrottaEva Speranza*Ela Kai WhalenLittle Chinese Abiageal BoyleEllery LabinskiAmelia PersaPeyton WalshAnna WebbBeth WebbRussian Lead Joseph BeltreRussian Corps Mathiang BonaWyatt ChenaultOrion PipechTeddy SziabowskiArabian Female Lead Jo-ann BurkeArabian Male Lead Derek BrockingtonArabian Corps Hailey WankierValerie WarnerEla Kai WhalenElizabeth Windnagle

19Land of the SweetsMother Ginger Arthur BeutelGingerbread Cookies Lucy AdamsOlivia FergusonElizabeth FournierEmerson GellerQuinlan GreenbaumStella GugginaEmmanuelle HazeltonLilly JacobsonHunter JamesEllory Maynard-ByronAvery McClureElla MintoNicole TheraultPeyton VanlewHeather VothAmelia Walsh*Aria Greenbaum, *Alyssa Greenwood, *Riya ParekhGentleman Fox Paige O’NeillThe Cookie Force Isla SziabowskiDew Drop Fairy Sarah McCahillFlower Demi Soloists Jo-ann BurkeNaomi LangillFlower Corps Soa Brummitt Julia BurkackiVictoria Jaenson Mollie PetrizzoIsabella O’Connor Sophia PirrottaEmily SilvaPenny Wickwire*Mason Capone, *Serana Snow, *Isha Sondhi, *Eva Speranza, *Olivia Taylor, *Hailey Wankier, *Valerie Warner, *Ela Kai Whalen, *Elizabeth WindnagleFlower Petals Jade BelloKyla ChengLeah DevorKhushi GroverEmelia MartinezEvie MessingerElla NunezSoa Wargo*Quinlan Greenbaum, *Lilly Jacobson

20The Nutcracker 2019 | Photo: Thomas Giroir20

21The Nutcracker 2019 | Photo: Thomas GiroirClara’s TransformationClara is led by the Dew Drop Fairy to fulll her dream of becoming the Sugar Plum Fairy Clara Nupur SondhiDew Drop Fairy Sarah McCahillWand Carrier Mary WizemanTransformation Box Escorts Jaime Bello, Ofer HarelFlower Demi Soloists Jo-ann Burke, Naomi LangillFlower Corps Soa Brummitt Julia Burkacki Victoria Jaenson Mollie Petrizzo Isabella O’Connor Sophia Pirrotta Emily Silva Penny Wickwire*Mason Capone, *Serana Snow, *Isha Sondhi, *Eva Speranza, *Olivia Taylor, *Hailey Wankier, *Valerie Warner, *Ela Kai Whalen, *Elizabeth WindnagleFlower Petals Jade Bello Kyla Cheng Leah Devor Khushi Grover Emelia Martinez Evie Messinger Ella Nunez Soa Wargo*Quinlan Greebaum,*Lilly JacobsonSugar Plum Fairy Lauren LovetteCavalier Dylan WaldThe Sugar Plum Fairy and her Cavalier dance into the gleaming starsSugar Plum Fairy Lauren LovetteCavalier Dylan WaldGrand Pas De DeuxThe EndApotheosisDivertissements dance and bid farewell to ClaraChristmas Morning Clara realizes her adventures were all a dream and cradles her beloved NutcrackerDrosselmeyer Gabrielle BakerLead Angels Claire Casey, Ella MintoClara Nupur Sondhi

22In Artistic Director Dattellas’ rendition of The Nutcracker, audience members will notice something unexpected in the epic Battle Scene between the Mouse King and Nutcracker Doll. In most traditional Nutcracker ballets, the Mouse King and Mice are performed by ballet dancers who ll the stage in fast footwork, leaps and turns. However, Dattellas took the chance to redene this particular scene with a vision of her own.The Battle Scene will include the dancing talents of Hartford’s leading Break dancing and Hip-Hop company, Studio 860, performing as the fan-favorite Mouse King and troop of Mice. In 2018, the collaboration with Studio 860 was inaugurated, and this year has developed in collaboration with the Director of Studio 860, Jolet Creary. “It has been such a rewarding and exciting experience to share the BTC studio with Jolet, and her troupe of talented dancers,” says Dattellas. “Although, of course Ballet and Break dancing are very dierent genres of dance, they both demand the same commitment, attention to detail and passion for successful execution.” Under Jolet’s direction, the dancers of Studio 860 bring a thrilling energy into the Battle scene. The sharp and controlled movements of the toy soldiers contrast with the expansive dynamic range of Studio 860’s talented mice, each group highlighting dierent elements of Tchaikovsky’s iconic score. The shared energy and tension between these two groups of dancers is riveting and brings a fresh energy to the scene, captivating the grit of this epic battle with unexpected layers of dynamic movement that keep the audience on the edge of their seat in anticipation. To learn more about Studio 860 and see videos of the dancers in action link to the website by scanning the code.THE NUTCRACKER - Featuring Studio 8602019 | Photo: Thomas Giroir

23The Nutcracker costumesbehind the seamsTo further complement this resplendent production, Ballet Theatre Company’s talented costume designers, Tracy Dorman and Pat Ubaldi Nurnberger have created over 25 brand new costumes. It may surprise people to know, that in Ballet Theatre Company’s production of The Nutcracker, there are over 1,000 costume pieces, with over 100 tutus!Did you know? Just as a dancer trains countless hours to perfect their performance on stage, a seamstress works countless hours to perfect each aspect of a costume. The basic tutu skirt takes anywhere from 20-25 hours to complete, and up to an additional 25-30 hours to add embellishments and ornate details. On average, a tutu costs around $2,500 with the most elaborate tutus ranging between $5,000-$10,000.Here is a sneak peek of Pat Ubaldi Nurnberger’s designs for the Sugar Plum Fairy and Cavalier for BTC’s production of The Nutcracker. Pat is known for her incredible attention to beading detail and trim work. As part of her design process she uses watercolors to illustrate what she envisions.In 2019, Ballet Theatre Company’s Artistic Director, Costume Designers, and sta carefully curated a costume exhibition, Through the Tulle, featuring a collection of BTC’s nest costumes. The exhibition booklet tells the story of how these exquisite works of art were created through interviews with the designers and photographs. It is available for viewing on the company website on the Costumer’s page at www.dancebtc.org or scan the code to learn more.Would you like to learn more about BTC’s extraordinary designers and the costumes they create? 23

24Lauren LovetteSugar Plum FairyLauren Lovette is a former principal dancer with the New York City Ballet and an acclaimed independent choreographer. In her time with the company she has earned both the Janice Levin Award and the Clive Barnes Award for dance. She has created works for the New York City Ballet, American Ballet Theatre, American Ballet Theatre’s Studio Company, Paul Taylor Dance Company, among others. Her collaborators include musician Kate Davis, poet Andrea Gibson, and fashion designers Fernando Garcia and Laura Kim of Oscar de la Renta/MONSE, Zac Posen, Narciso Rodriguez and Victor Glemaud.In 2019 Ms. Lovette was named Artist-in-Residence for Damian Woetzel’s prestigious Vail Dance Festival. In 2018, she was awarded a Virginia B. Toulmin Fellowship for Women Leaders in Dance at The Center for Ballet and the Arts at New York University.Since December 2018, Ms. Lovette has served as Artistic Chair of the Board of Groove With Me, an organization that oers hundreds of young women free dance and movement classes, with the goal of providing a safe and nurturing environment in which to practice self-expression and explore potential.Dylan Wald CavalierDylan Wald is from Minneapolis, Minnesota. He studied at Minnesota Dance Theatre and Pacic Northwest Ballet School. He attended summer courses at Pacic Northwest Ballet, the School of American Ballet, The Juilliard School, and Hubbard Street Dance Chicago. Mr. Wald joined Pacic Northwest Ballet as an apprentice in 2014 and was promoted to corps de ballet in 2015, soloist in 2019, and principal in 2020.In 2017, Mr. Wald participated in the Nederlands Dans Theater Summer Intensive. In 2019, he performed with Seattle Dance Collective. He has also performed as a guest artist with Ballet Hawaii, Ballet Sun Valley, Chautauqua Dance Institution, Jacobs Pillow Dance Festival, Lafayette Ballet Theater and Montana Ballet Company. btc guest artists

25Gabrielle Baker Godmother Drosselmeyer Gabrielle Baker is a NYC based performer and a Southington, Connecticut native. She graduated in 2019 with a BA in Theatre Performance from Wagner College where she received the Dolly Award for Excellence in Theatre. After graduation, Gabrielle was invited to perform at the Town Hall in Times Square as a member of the Broadway’s Rising Stars concert. Favorite credits include Kate McGowan in Titanic, Belle in Beauty and The Beast, and Petra in A Little Night Music. In her free time Gabrielle enjoys making Tiktoks reviewing NYC’s top restaurants, binge watching shows, and singing her heart out at karaoke! Derek Brockington Snow King/ Arabian Lead Derek Brockington was raised in West Michigan and is currently in his 4th season as a company member at Dance Theatre of Harlem. Before joining DTH he danced in the Second Company at Cincinnati Ballet. He began his dance training in Saugatuck, Michigan. He went on to train at the Grand Rapids Ballet, before attending and graduating from Interlochen Arts Academy. Brockington has attended summer intensives at The Pennsylvania Ballet Ballet West and Central Pennsylvania Youth Ballet on scholarship. He has performed works by Annabelle Lopez Ocha, Claudia Schrier. Darrell Grand Moultrie, George Balanchine, and Stanton Welch. Brockington was also a co producer of the viral video “Dancing Through Harlem” and was featured with Dance Theatre of Harlem on The Ellen Show. Dashawn DavisMouse King Dashawn “MJ2” Davis is a dancer, actor, and Michael Jackson impersonator. Dashawn has been performing his whole life and has trained in Hip-Hop, Jazz, Contemporary and Ballet. He has had several TV appearances including WTNH Channel 8 CT Style segment, MTV’s Next Big Dance Move and appeared in a lm posted in dance magazine. Dashawn is currently working as professional dancer, and is a dance coach the 860 Boyz crew.btc guest artists

26btc guest artistsJoseph BeltreRussian Lead/Noah Webster DollBorn and raised in Brooklyn, NY Joseph Beltre attended Fiorello H. LaGuardia High School of Music and Art and Performing Arts. He graduated in 2015 and began his studies as a performance emphasis major at The Hartt School. He studied there for two years before branching out into the professional world of dance. Beltre has had the honor of working with choreographers such as Adam Barruch, Damani Pompey, Yesid Lopez, Lucy Bowen McCauley and Stephan Pier. He participated as an apprentice with DeMa Dance Company in New York, known for working with renowned artists such as TOKYO, Sonya Tayeh and Billy Bell from So You Think You Can Dance, and danced for HBO’s premiere show, “Random Acts of Flyness”. Beltre performed as a company artist with Sonia Plumb Dance for two years before joining BTC as a Season Dancer and faculty member. Additional professional venues and performances include Jacob’s Pillow, Festival of Schools at the Alvin Ailey Theatre, Mandala The Premier with The East Harlem Repertory Theatre, Light for Peace at Shinnyo Lantern Festival, Dancing for Orlando at City Center Dance Studios, ACDA New England Regional Dance Conference, 5X5 Dance Festival, and all of BTC’s large and small stage productions since 2017.Arthr BeutelFather Stahlbaum/Mother GingerArthur Beutel is a classically trained singer and actor currently based out of New York City. His dynamic, high-energy approach to performing in both classical and musical theater styles brings his unique brand of humor to the stage for all to enjoy. He received his Bachelor of Music in Opera from Colorado State University and a Graduate certicate in Vocal Performance from the University of Connecticut. Arthur is excited to return to BTC this year. In previous seasons he was seen as Catalabutte, the master of ceremonies, during the 2019 spring production of Sleeping Beauty and as Mr. Stahlbaum in the Fall 2018 and 2019 productions of The Nutcracker. More info is available at www.arthurbeutel.com.

27Artistic Director Stephanie DattellasChoreography Stephanie DattellasAdditional Choreographyfor The Battle Scene Tyler Brown Jolet Creary Dashawn DavisGrand Pas de Deux George BalanchineBallet Mistress Emily SilvaProduction Manager Deirdre BensonAssistant Production Manager Megan O’BrienProjection Design Samuel BiondolilloLighting Design Samuel BiondolilloElectrics and Projections Supervisor David OrlandoStage Manager Joshua StengerCostume Design Tracy Dorman Pat Ubaldi NurnbergerNorma SavarinoCatherine SavinoCharacter Mask Design Kelly GellerProp Design Shira AvidorEric BrummittDavid HubbardJuliette JanchukMegan KlamertSet Design Monica Whalen Kelley Geller Kate WizemanMother Ginger Design Rob FournierDevelopment Director Brianna DunlapBox Oce Manager Kyleigh OlivierOutreach Administrator Kyleigh OlivierSocial Media Coordinator Naomi LangillGraphic Designer Laurel HoskinsCast Coordinator Peggy HubbardBoutique Coordinator Peter CofrancescoPhotography Tracy DormanThomas GiroirSpecial thanks to Imperial Decorating & Upholstering of West Hartford. Additional thanks goes to the many parents and volunteers for their tireless support of Ballet Theatre Company’s production of The Nutcracker.Thank you to our foundation supporters, our business sponsors, and to our patrons.nutcracker production team

28Ruth Whitney in BTC’s 2019 The Nutcracker | Photo by Thomas GiroirBALLET THEATRE COMPANYThe mission of Ballet Theatre Company (BTC) is to enrich Greater Hartford by oering professional-caliber dance productions, dance education for ages 3 to adult in its training school, The School of Ballet Theatre Company, and dance related experiences and workshops free of charge to children who otherwise would not have the opportunity through its Community Youth Outreach Program. BTC was founded in West Hartford in 1999. During its rst three years, the performance company presented an annual spring repertory performance at the Gilman Theater, Greater Hartford Jewish Community Center. In December 2002, BTC accepted an invitation to stage its rst production of The Nutcracker at the University of Saint Joseph’s Homan Auditorium in the Carol Autorino Center for the Arts and Humanities. This production has become an annual tradition for BTC, the Homan Auditorium, and the Greater Hartford community for 20 years. BTC’s annual Spring Repertory performance, held at the Homan Auditorium since 2002, has become a showcase for new works by regional and guest choreographers as well as a select repertoire of classical ballets. In 2018, BTC introduced its rst full-length spring ballet, Cinderella. The staging of storybook ballets has since become another annual tradition, with subsequent seasons featuring Sleeping Beauty and Aladdin.This season, BTC is making its’ company debut at The Bushnell for The Nutcracker - an historic achievement for the organization.28

29Stephanie Dattellas, Artistic DirectorStephanie Dattellas is an accomplished professional dancer, choreographer, director, and teacher. Her training began with Ballet and Dance of Upstate NY, Inc., under the direction of Kathleen Rathbun, and continued professionally performing with companies such as Suzanne Farrell Ballet, Complexions Contemporary Ballet, and Buglisi Dance Theatre. Dattellas has in-depth experience developing young dancers’ technique, strength and artistry, and passionately believes that nding personal individuality is equally as important as developing technique. Dattellas joined Ballet Theatre Company as Artistic Director and General Manager in June 2017 and since has choreographed and premiered Cinderella (Spring 2018), the rst full-length ballet presented by BTC, The Nutcracker (December 2018), and Sleeping Beauty (Spring 2019). Additionally, Dattellas introduced several new performances into the company’s season; Dancing For A Cause, a benet performance in collaboration with fellow dance companies in Greater Hartford to raise funds for fellow non-prot organizations in the community, Cover to Cover, a season opener performance to introduce works are involved in the upcoming season, and Up Close: Fall & Spring, which both premiered digitally this past season. Prior to Ballet Theatre Company, Dattellas was the Ballet Mistress and Company Manager of the Syracuse City Ballet.Emily Silva, Ballet MistressEmily Aubrey Silva grew up in Sandown, NH, and completed her early pre-professional training at Boston Ballet School. After graduating high school, she was selected to attend Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre’s Graduate Program, where she taught on the Children’s Division faculty during her studies. Emily graduated summa cum laude from the University of Hartford’s Hartt School with her BFA in Dance Performance and Ballet Pedagogy in May 2018 and performed as a soloist with Ballet Hartford following graduation. In September of 2018, Silva joined BTC faculty and served as Assistant Ballet Mistress from 2018-2020 as well as Community Youth Outreach Coordinator for the 2019-2020 season, in addition to performing in all of BTC’s mainstage performances. Silva joined BTC as a Season Dancer in 2019 and stepped into the role of Ballet Mistress in the 2020-2021 season. Since transitioning to the role of Ballet Mistress, she has worked closely with fellow sta members to creatively tackle the challenges presented by the ongoing pandemic and continue to provide high quality arts experiences to the community.btc artistic team

30Paul Mejia, Artistic Advisor Paul Mejia was born in Lima, Peru, but was raised in New York. He joined the School of American Ballet in 1958, and choreographed his rst ballets by the age of fourteen. Mr. Mejia joined the New York City Ballet in 1964, and danced principal roles in many of George Balanchine’s ballets. In 1972, he joined Maurice Bejart’s Ballet of the Twentieth Century where he danced and choreographed throughout Europe; and in 1977, he staged a season of ballet in Guatemala, where he created four new ballets including Romeo and Juliet, the rst of his highly acclaimed Shakespearean ballet series. Mr. Mejia joined the Chicago City Ballet as co-artistic director with Maria Tallchief; and during the next seven years, he created fteen new ballets, including his full-length version of Cinderella, which toured nationally and internationally to great acclaim. His ballet Eight by Adler, music by Richard Adler, was later lmed for PBS and won an Award for Suzanne Farrell.From 1987 to 1998, he was the artistic director of the Fort Worth Dallas Ballet, during which time he added thirty-two of his own works to the company’s repertoire, including sixteen world premieres. Dedicated to the artistic vision and philosophy of George Balanchine, Mr. Mejia has choreographed dramatic story ballets, as well as works in the neoclassical style; and has choreographed several works for operas, including the Chicago Lyric Opera. He has been a guest teacher and lecturer in various schools and universities throughout the US.In 1984, he was selected by Esquire Magazine as one of the “Outstanding Americans Under 40.” In 1998, Mr. Mejia became the artistic advisor of the Metropolitan Classical Ballet, then Ballet Arlington. He has added many of his own works to the company’s repertoire, including three world premieres, and has staged several George Balanchine ballets. In 2001, he assumed the position of executive director for the Company, and in 2002 was named co-artistic director with Alexander Vetrov. He and his wife, Maria Terezia Balogh, and their children, Roman, Isabella and Lazslo, reside in West Hartford, CT.Maria Terezia Balogh, Artistic Advisor As a professional ballerina for twenty-two years, Maria Terezia Balogh was a principal dancer with the Lyric Opera Ballet, later known as Chicago City Ballet, and the Fort Worth Ballet. During that time, she was an instructor in the ocial schools of both companies. After she retired as a dancer, she married and had three children, but continued her career as a ballet instructor. Presently, she is the Founding Director of Dance for All Saints’ Episcopal School in Fort Worth, where she instructs student levels early childhood - 12. Ms. Balogh’s greatest reward is to instill in her students a love of classical ballet they can enjoy throughout their lives.btc artistic team

31Tracy Dorman, Executive Director Tracy Dorman has been with Ballet Theatre Company since its inception in 1999 and was appointed Executive Director in February 2005. She is a founding member, a member of the Board of Directors, and plays a major role in the Company’s artistic and organizational development. She brings extensive experience as a dancer, choreographer, administrator, and dance educator, to the company and has earned numerous awards for scenic and costume design, photography, and arts advocacy. Dorman received her dance training from Florence Greenland, Madame Margarita Froman, Marguerite deAnguera, Wang Shao Pen, David Howard, and others. She performed with the Connecticut Valley Regional Ballet, The Hartford Civic Ballet, Canton Show Shop, Experimental Theatre of Hartford, Connecticut Opera Ballet, Springeld Children’s Music Theatre, and numerous other regional theater groups. She served as President of the Connecticut Valley Regional Ballet Company and is Past President of both the Dance Services Network and the Mark Twain Masquers. Dorman has choreographed much of Ballet Theatre Company’s classical repertoire and has designed many of the company’s costumes. Dorman worked with Hartford Ballet’s Costume shop sta to create costumes for The American Nutcracker designed by internationally acclaimed designer Sandra Woodall. As a photographer, her work recently appeared in Popular Photography and Imaging Magazine, where she was named runner-up for a Ford Motor Company advertisement. She is a 2014 honoree of the CT Dance Alliance Award for distinguished achievement in dance and in 2005, the Connecticut Commission on Culture and Tourism awarded her the Distinguished Advocacy Award for her longtime volunteerism to the arts. Brianna Dunlap, Development Director Brianna Dunlap joined Ballet Theatre Company in 2021. Brianna is a results-oriented leader who specializes in growing and maintaining organizational development programs. She loves connecting people to what they are passionate about, so she is focused on building and stewarding strong relationships with our BTC supporters. Brianna earned her Master’s degree in Public History at Central Connecticut State University (2016). She is the author of Connecticut Valley Tobacco, a History Press book on the history, culture, and people of cigar tobacco agriculture.BTC administrative team

32Kyleigh Olivier, Outreach AdministratorKyleigh Olivier began dancing at the age of three in Massachusetts and trained in a variety of styles. She recently graduated from The Hartt School in May of 2021 with a BFA in Dance with a concentration in Ballet Pedagogy, along with a Business Management minor. In her time at The Hartt School, Olivier discovered her passion for teaching dance and community outreach as she worked with diverse groups of students in her internships and served as Dance Director of the Prism Project, leading movement activities for children with exceptionalities. As BTC’s Community Youth Outreach Assistant, Olivier is excited to continue to spread the joy of the Arts to children of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds throughout the Greater Hartford area. Gabrielle Baker, School Administrator Gabrielle Baker is also one of BTC’s Guest Artists playing the role of Godmother Drosselmeyer in The Nutcracker. See her complete bio on page 27.Noami Langill, Social Media CoordinatorOriginally from Sacramento, California, Naomi Langill is excited to expand her artistic experience by joining Ballet Theatre Company’s creative team as the Social Media Coordinator. The art form and company are beloved for her, and she is excited in sharing a bit of Ballet Theatre Company’s world with you. She strives in preserving and continuing the beautiful form that is dance through all means possible. If you want to join us, be sure to follow us on Instagram and Facebook. Langill is also one of the company’s professional dancers in residence.BTC administrative team

33Deirdre Benson, Production Manager Deirdre Benson is a Boston-based stage manager, production manager, and sound designer. Over the past few years, she has worked with The Blue Man Group, Commonwealth Shakespeare Company, and the Boston Circus Guild. Most recently, Deirdre was the Producing Associate for the Provincetown Tennessee Williams Festival.Megan O’Brien, Assistant Production Manager Megan O’Brien is excited to be joining BTC as the assistant production manager for the company’s 2021-2022 season. Originally from South Windsor, Connecticut, she earned her BA in Theatre at Eastern Connecticut State University and her MFA in Lighting Design at Wayne State University. Before going back to school, O’Brien worked with BTC for three years as the master electrician and spotlight operator for The Nutcracker, and is thrilled to be working with the company again.Laurel Hoskins, Graphic Designer Laurel’s relationship with Ballet Theatre Company began 20 years ago when her 5 year old daughter Lianna took ballet lessons at the Masonic Hall on Main Street, the rented studio where the edgling BTC ran classes and performances. Soon after, BTC hired her to promote their growing business and productions. Since then, the partnership has ourished and enriched her professional and personal life with many opportunities and friendships. Her formative years were spent in Mexico, Brazil, Peru, California, and Connecticut. Formal schooling included Bucknell University and University of Connecticut, earning a BA in English Literature with minors in Botany and Astronomy. Hoskins has worked in graphic design and marketing for FPS Marketing in Milford, CT, is a director for Indian Law Resources, and has been self-employed as a freelance graphic designer for Laurel Graphic Design for 25 years.BTC production team

34Tracy Dorman, Costume Designer Tracy also serves as Executive Director of BTC. See bio on page 23.Pat Nurnberger, Costume Designer Pat Ubaldi Nurnberger obtained her Master’s Degree in Costuming from UCONN. She graduated from the Rhode Island School of Design and began her career as a fashion designer in New York. While still in New York, she began designing for her daughter’s ballet school, and quickly fell in love with this art form. She ultimately decided to leave the apparel business and devote herself to the theater. While at UCONN, she worked on as many projects as possible, most notably, Tito’s Dream, a theatrical presentation of Carlos Garcia’s eponymous poem. Larger works included designs for Big Love and Midsummer Night’s Dream, as well as assisting on two operas. In the past years, she has designed a ballet version of L’Enfant et Les Sortileges, as well as several versions of The Nutcracker, Giselle, Sleeping Beauty, Coppelia and others. Musicals include Anything Goes, Always…Patsy Cline and Spring Awakening, Bus Stop, You’re a Good Man Charlie Brown, Hair, Beauty and the Beast, and The Fantasticks. Opera designs for HMS Pinafore, The Marriage of Figaro, Cendrillon, Sour Angelica, Princess Ida and The Mikado have followed. Peter Cofrancesco, Resident Videographer Peter Cofrancesco, Creation Dream Video, is a full time freelance videographer specializing in lming live events and providing legal video services. In 2020 and 2021 he lmed the digital premieres of BTC’s Up Close and the full-length ballet Snow White.BTC production team

35Jo-ann BurkeWhile under the employ of Syracuse City Ballet’s resident company during the 2019-2020 season, Jo-ann Burke danced throughout the central New York Community. She was featured in the soloist roles of “Lucy” in Dracula, and as the “Snow Queen,” “Arabian Princess,” and “Spanish Pas De Deux” in The Nutcracker, as well as appearing in local school shows, instructional videos, and digital seasons. Prior to joining Syracuse City Ballet, Burke danced as a member of Milwaukee Ballet’s second company, MBII, for the 2018-2019 season, where she understudied roles for the main company, appeared in Milwaukee Ballet performances, as well as with MBII, and represented Milwaukee Ballet in the community. During her training, Burke was aorded the opportunity to premiere new ballets. While attending the School of the Pennsylvania Ballet, she was invited by Mr. Angel Corella to dance along with the corps de ballet in Pennsylvania Ballet’s premiere of Don Quixote, and its world premiere of Le Corsaire. While with the Kansas City Ballet School’s Training Program, she was invited to perform with the Kansas City Ballet in two of Mr. Devon Carney’s world premiere ballets; Romeo and Juliet and Peter Pan. Burke has performed with professional companies in several full-length story ballets including Don Quixote, Le Corsaire, Cinderella, The Nutcracker, Romeo and Juliet, Peter Pan and Dracula. Victoria JaensonOriginally from Kampala, Uganda, Victoria Jaenson began her formal dance training at the age of seven in Vermont. She later studied at the Rock School in Philadelphia, eventually joining the faculty. In 2017, Jaenson began studying at The Hartt School. In the fall of 2018, she joined Charlotte Ballet II. There, she had the opportunity to perform Alonzo King’s Map; Medhi Walerski’s Petit Cérémonie; Jean-Pierre Bonnefoux’s Nutcracker and Peter Pan; Christian Spuck’s Leonce and Lena; and Matthew Hart’s Sleeping Beauty. This past summer, Jaenson performed with Des Moines Metro Opera as a dancer for the operas Platée and Queen of Spades.btc company dancers

36Naomi LangillOriginally from Sacramento, California, Naomi Langill trained with Cap-itol Ballet Company under the direction of Stuart Carroll and Sharon Newton. She has danced with Ballet Frontier of Texas and guested with Capitol Ballet Company. Langill has been honored to have performed many dierent ballets and original pieces. Some of her favorite roles have been Titania in A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Clara and the Snow Queen in The Nutcracker, as well as the title role in Sylvia. Naomi enjoys sharing the love of dance through every new role and is excited to be joining Ballet Theatre Company for their inaugural season.Sarah McCahillSarah McCahill started dancing at the age of four at Nutmeg Conservatory for the Arts. She has also trained with School of American Ballet and Miami City Ballet School. From the age of 12-17 she competed in YAGP winning rst place in the junior division and placing in the top 10 every year after in the NYC nals. After completing high school McCahill moved to South Florida to start an apprenticeship under Edward Vilella in Miami City Ballet. She was shortly thereafter promoted to the corps de ballet and stayed with the company for ve seasons later dancing under Lourdes Lopez doing mostly Balanchine and pieces from world renowned choreographers like Justin Peck, Twyla Tharp, Liam Scarlett to name a few. In 2017 McCahill joined Dimensions Dance Theater of Miami, a newer contemporary dance company led by the retired principal MCB couple, Jennifer Kroennenberg and Carlos Guerra. She stayed for a season dancing with them then came back to CT to begin diving into teaching at Woodbury Ballet and various other studios in the area while working full time. This will be her rst season at Ballet Theatre Company.btc company dancers

37Mollie PetrizzoMollie Petrizzo was raised in West Hartford, Connecticut where she began her dance training at the age of 3. Throughout her young dance career she danced with Ballet Theatre Company, then at 17 decided to train at Nutmeg Conservatory for the Arts. After high school, Petrizzo was accepted into the Ailey-Fordham BFA program at Fordham University in New York City and graduated in the spring of 2021. She is currently dancing with Dimensional Dance company and teaching at Greater Hartford Academy of the Arts in Hartford, Connecticut. She is thrilled to be joining BTC for its 2021-2022 company season!Gennaro Della RagioneGennaro is a professional dancer from Naples, Italy. His teachers included Carmela Pirozzi, Margherita Veneruso, and Ferdinando Arenella in Italy. He studied in Germany at the ocial school of the Semperoper Theater. Della Ragione was chosen as a solo dancer for the show Una Voce for Padre Pio, a prime-time show on Italian TV. In the US, he has been Principal dancer for Sonia Plumb Dance Company as well as Dimensional Dance. He also performed as a principal dancer in La Bayadere with Centro Danza and Sheherazade at the Teatro Mediterraneo in Naples. Della Ragione also apprenticed with Mystic Ballet company directed by Goran Subotic.Emily Silva Emily Aubrey Silva is one of BTC’s company dancers as well as its Ballet Mistress. She completed her early pre-professional training at Boston Ballet School. After graduating high school, Silva trained in Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre School’s Graduate Program, where she performed with Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre Company and taught on the Children’s Division faculty. She went on to attend the University of Hartford’s Hartt School, and graduated summa cum laude with a BFA in Dance Performance and Ballet Pedagogy. While pursuing her BFA, Silva performed works by George Balanchine, Antony Tudor, Martha Graham, Arthur Saint-Leon, Claudia Schreier, and Manuel Vignoulle. She is a former soloist with Ballet Hartford and has performed with Ballet Theatre Company since 2017.btc company dancers

38ApprenticesKyla Cheng Jillian Hubbard Evie Messinger Soa WargoBallet Theatre Company (BTC) oers students a unique opportunity for young aspiring dancers to perform in professional ballet productions as part of BTC’s Corps de Ballet. The mission of BTC’s Corps de Ballet is to provide serious dancers the opportunity to train at a high caliber, experience professional dance at a young age, and, if interested, to prepare for a future in dance.Soa BrummittJulia BurkackiMason Capone Isabella O’Connor Sophia PirrottaSerana Snow Isha Sondhi Nupur Sondhi Eva Speranza Hailey WankierEla Whalen Penny Wickwire Elizabeth WindnaglePortraits by Thomas Giroirjunior corps de ballet

39ABOUT SEASON 23Ballet is Back!Ballet returns to Greater Hartford stages bigger, and better than ever.As we head into the holiday season, optimism is in the air! We see it all around us, the thrills and traditions that we love and have missed. BTC productions continue to feature accomplished local dancers, national ballet stars, and school-age ballet students from the Greater Hartford area. With each unique show, BTC provides joy and inspiration to everyone from ballet enthusiasts to children who want to experience the magic of dance.BTC is a women-led organization and it’s rapidly growing. As the leadership looks to the future of the Company and of ballet in Connecticut, we are expanding performance possibilities and making ballet more equitable for its dancers.To walk the talk, BTC launched a paid Company Dancers is Residence for the rst time in its history for our 2021-2022 performance year. In the past, BTC paid dancers per performance, but now they are paid to train, rehearse and perform as an ocial Company. In a eld where working for free is often expected, BTC is ensuring that its ballet dancers are valued.At the end of August, BTC held an audition to hire its new dancers. When she looks back at the day Dattellas remembers the feel of a vision coming to life, “After a riveting audition, we oered contracts to a diverse and talented group of professional dancers. I truly cannot tell you how wonderful it felt to see BTC’s dreams come to fruition right in front of my eyes.”Just in time for the 20th Anniversary production of The Nutcracker, we can announce that The Nutcracker this December and Aladdin in April 2022 will be performed at The Bushnell Center for Performing Arts! This is the rst time that BTC will present on this prestigious stage, made more glorious because The Nutcracker will be Ballet Theatre Company’s dancers’ rst main stage show in over a year of not performing in public theaters. We are proud to oer the ballet to Greater Hartford and beyond.With the return of ballet to the main stage, dancers and audiences will reconnect in a way that online performances can never provide. “I’m thrilled to stage news works, and re-visit classics like The Nutcracker at The Bushnell,” says Dattellas. “And we are eager to make ballet more approachable and fair for dancers and audiences in Greater Hartford.”Ballet is back! We are glad to see you here.“We know that audiences are ready to experience the feel of live shows again,” says Ballet Theatre Company Artistic Director Stephanie Dattellas about preparing for the company’s 23rd season, “and as we look at the season ahead, we are ready to dazzle with our fall and winter ballets.”

40purchase tickets at dancebtc.org or scan the code belowSeason 23Season 23ballet theatre companyperformances and eventsIf unable to attend, tickets are also available for digital streaming December 22-January 2

4120 Jeerson Ave, West Hartford, CT 06110 (860) 570-0440 | Email: school@dancebtc.org www.dancebtc.orgEDUCATIONEDUCATIONPhoto by Walt JedziniakTHE SCHOOL OF BALLET THEATRE COMPANYThe School of Ballet Theatre Company (SBTC) is the ocial school of Ballet Theatre Company (BTC), oering classes for students ages three to adult, from beginner to advanced levels. Its carefully-constructed curriculum emphasizes strong technique, proper alignment, musicality, and expression. Through a faculty of distinguished professionals, its ballet instructors incorporate the best of the French, Italian, and Russian training methods in a nurturing and supportive classroom environment that fosters the development of young artists.Whether SBTC’s students dance for fun and exercise, or because they dream of becoming a professional dancer, SBTC’s curriculum prepares students physically and mentally to embrace their next adventure, cultivating discipline, friendships that will last a lifetime, and an appreciation for the art form.In addition, the students share a facility with the professional company, enriching each student’s experience by allowing them to observe those dancers in classes, rehearsals and performances. Students are also oered opportunities to perform with the professional company in productions such as Stephanie Dattellas’ The Nutcracker.41

42COMMUNITY YOUTH OUTREACH PROGRAM (CYOP)Ballet Theatre Company’s (BTC) Community Youth Outreach Program (CYOP) provides children with the opportunity to participate in studio dance education classes and experience live professional dance performances free of charge. Over the past 22 years, BTC’s CYOP has reached over 10,000 children and grown to encompass four substantial programs and many wonderful partnering organizations!At BTC, we believe that all children deserve the opportunity to experience the positive impact of the arts. Through our programming, we strive to reach as many under-resourced children as possible through dance classes, opportunities to attend professional-caliber live performances, and much more. We believe that these opportunities are crucial in developing well-rounded human beings who become critical thinkers, develop curious minds, and lead more productive lives. The goal of BTC’s CYOP is to inspire, nurture and encourage children by providing them opportunities to forge a life-long, personal connection to the arts. Over the past 7 years, BTC has partnered with Hartford Performs to bring artistic experiences into Hartford Public Schools. In aliation with BTC’s semi-annual main stage productions, BTC produces a 1-hour abbreviated performance specically for school children. Although COVID-19 has created some barriers, BTC is happy to continue to oer this opportunity through live stream performances for this year’s The Nutcracker production directly to local classrooms.Make a donation at www.dancebtc.orgBEHIND theCURTAIN42OUTREACHOUTREACH

43This season, BTC reserved 150 tickets for The Nutcracker for partnering child advocacy organizations to come see the magical performance free of charge through A Children’s Nutcracker. This outreach program has shared the joy of the performing arts with youth throughout Greater Hartford since 2002. Stay tuned for details about the spring performance of A Children’s Ballet, featuring Aladdin!Did your organization miss out on reserving its free tickets for A Children’s Nutcracker this season? Don’t worry - you can still bring the joy of this magical holiday performance to your organization’s children and families through a Free Streaming Ticket! This ticket will allow you to stream the 2021 performance of The Nutcracker at the Bushnell’s stunning Maxwell M. and Ruth R. Belding Theater free of charge any time from December 20 through January 2! Reach out to outreach@dancebtc.org if you are interested.43

Raising the Barre (RTB) is BTC’s longest running CYOP program. RTB provides children in under-resourced communities with studio education dance classes and workshops free of charge. RTB not only introduces children to European arts and culture, but it also inspires and encourages them to dream, set, and achieve lofty goals. Through this program, children build socialization and relationship skills, explore self-expression, and grow in individuality, self-esteem, and condence. They gain physical tness in strength, coordination, mobility, exibility, and cognitive ability. Participating children get to experience a variety of dance techniques, including jazz, ballet, and hip hop. The program culminates in a performance that will allow participants to showcase their talents and progress with family and friends. BTC partners with the Hillcrest Area Neighborhood Outreach Center (HANOC) and the Boys and Girls Club (BGC) that serve children anywhere from ages 5-16. The majority of these children normally would not be able to participate in such activities due to socioeconomic background, nancial status, and other limitations. After the challenging last year and a half, BTC is excited to bring back this program again in Season 23.cyop: raising the barreMake a donation at www.dancebtc.org44

Make a donation at www.dancebtc.org45Ballet Theatre Company (BTC) is thrilled to continue its partnership with the Miracle League of CT and oer Everybody Dance Now (EDN), an adaptive dance program, for its 4th year! After a successful fall session, BTC and the Miracle League are excited to jump into the upcoming spring session and share the joy of movement with all dancing bodies. At BTC, we believe that all children deserve the opportunity to experience the positive impact of the arts. In 2018, some of the Miracle League of CT parents inquired about beginning an adaptive dance program. BTC was more than happy to partner with the Miracle League and develop this idea. EDN is an adaptive dance program that provides dancers of all abilities and ages the opportunity to express themselves through movement, despite their physical and emotional limitations. EDN is designed to develop self-esteem and self-expression, improve mobility and tness, build cognitive abilities, and give participants the experience of performing live.Through EDN, over 100 children with all types of exceptionalities have been able to express themselves through dance since its start up in 2018. Whether it meant moving the classes out onto the Miracle League baseball eld, or masking up, not even COVID-19 has stood in the way of continuing this wonderful program!cyop: everybody dance now

Make a donation at www.dancebtc.org46Behind the Curtain is aliated with BTC’s large stage productions such as Cinderella and Sleeping Beauty, along with the annual production of The Nutcracker. This season, BTC has oered a livestream or in-person presentation hosted by its professional dancers and artists to educate students about the many aspects of dance productions. These interactive presentations aim to invoke an early appreciation for the performing arts and oer knowledge that will propel students to be active and attentive audience members when attending performances. In addition, the Behind the Curtain program oers entertaining workbooks so that students can further explore the presented ballet and performing arts world, while also practicing essential academic skills. In opening students’ eyes to the many wonders of a ballet production, Behind the Curtain aims to share the joys of live performances with young audiences and inspire a lifelong connection to the arts, whether that be as a performer, costumer, member of the crew, or audience member. BTC is always looking to partner with more schools for this program! Please reach out to outreach@dancebtc.org if you know of any school or classroom that may be interested.cyop: behind the curtainBEHIND theCURTAIN

Make a donation at www.dancebtc.org47Board of DirectorsEric Brummitt, ChairBarbara Laurain, Vice ChairMichele Andrade, SecretaryStephanie Cole, TreasurerDirectorsJessica CaponeTracy DormanKim EckartEric GalmDan HitchellAlexa Berk KingLauren MilardoEmeritus BoardDouglas EicherKama GiedraLisa GreeneEmily Silva | Photo: Thomas GiroirBoard of directors

48Dear Friends,As Board Chair of Ballet Theatre Company, I sincerely welcome you to BTC’s twenty-third performance year.Last season, the screen became our studio and our stage. Professional dancers and students danced in living rooms and backyards on practice-sized squares. I even volunteered to make some of the portable Marley oorings myself!Now, you get to enjoy a unique experience back in the studio as our Company Dancers in Residence perform ballets by three varied choreographers. I am proud to see BTC’s Company Dancers on the stage doing what they love, and my heart is warmed to be in the audience with you.Thank you for everything you’ve done to ensure our success over the past year. Every donation and virtual ticket sale helped BTC during the times when the arts needed the most help.If you enjoy tonight’s ballet performances, please consider donating by becoming an Encore Society member. Becoming a member of the Encore Society is a great way to help BTC thrive and keep oering you performances like the one you are about to experience.Enjoy the show,Eric BrummittBoard ChairJoin the Encore Society at www.dancebtc.orgBoard of directors48

49Joseph Beltre and Lea-Janell Mitchell in Dattellas’ Divide | Eric Vagabond PhotographyWhen you become or renew as a BTC’s Encore Society member, you join BTC’s community of supporters who prioritize the performing arts in the Greater Hartford area. With a contribution of $100 or more, you will become a member of BTC’s exclusive Encore Society for the entirety of BTC’s 2021-2022 season.Benets include complimentary tickets and pre-sale ticket opportunities to season performances and many other exclusive perks. Learn more and join the Encore Society at www.dancebtc.org/encore-society49

50Ron and Nancy ComptonTracy DormanDouglas EicherKama GiedraLisa and Tim GreeneDIRECTOR CIRCLEJo-ann Burke, BTC Company Dancer | Photo: Thomas Giroir

51PRINCIPAL CIRCLEAlexa Berk KingJessica and Je J. CaponeCarl and Christine Dattellas Lauren MilardoFreddy and Bronwyn RolonNaomi Langill, BTC Company Dancer | Photo: Thomas Giroir

52Lori and Roger AubreyEric Brummitt and Michele PrizioJoseph and Sandra FriesWilliam HeerdtKathleen A. KennedySOLOIST CIRCLEMollie Petrizzo, BTC Company Dancer | Photo: Thomas Giroir

53Gloria AddonizioJessica BellJohn BetzJoanne C. CollinBrianna DunlapJason and Kelley GellerBrooke and Todd GreenwoodBonnie HoskinsMargaret HoskinsLaurel HoskinsDiana JamesKathleen KellerBarbara LaurainVirginia and William MajorMeghan and Ariel MartinezAmy and Dave MessingerNeha and Ankur ParekhLawrence and Naomi RotheldDonna SchwartzJae SieboldJudith and Allen SieboldTiany SmetakOlga Strongin-EuskoLeAnn WankierJohn WebbJohn WizemanCORPS DE BALLET CIRCLEVictoria Jaenson, BTC Company Dancer | Photo: Thomas Giroir

The Ballet Soir ec JUNE 25 2022 Encore Society members are invited to an intimate season ending gala performance seated dinner dancing and a virtual auction Scan the code below to purchase tickets to the event Membership to the Encore Society is also available here and at www dancebtc org 54

55Classes for Ages 3 through AdultRegistration is ongoing20 Jeerson Ave, West Hartford, CT 06110 | (860) 570-0440school@dancebtc.org | www.dancebtc.org

56On-Campus LibraryGuest Performances Resident-Run ClubsDuncaster is where From the campus Library to the Presidents’ College,I learn.At Duncaster, there are so many ways to continue to feed your mind. Attend lectures and discussion groups, complete your reading list in our library or learn new skills through our lifelong learning program. Here, you can enrich your mind to stay at your best. And with a full continuum of care services right on campus, choosing our Life Plan community means you’ll live at Duncaster with the peace of mind that comes from knowing you’ve made a smart decision.Keep knowing, keep growing – call (860) 380-5006 to schedule a tour.40 Loeffler Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002(860) 726-2000 • Duncaster.org

57The The Buchalter and Breslow Buchalter and Breslow FamilyFamilyproudly support sproudly support sBallet Theatre CompanyThe The Buchalter and Breslow Buchalter and Breslow FamilyFamilyproudly support sproudly support sBallet Theatre Company∏The Party Scene in BTC’s The Nutcracker 2019 | Photo by Thomas Giroir

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61LAUREL GRAPHIC DESIGNcongratulates BALLET THEATRE COMPANY on their spectacular productions! Our World Revolves Around Your Dog! 37 Darcy St West Hartford CT 860.882.1711 www.planetbark.com

Happy holidays neighbors I Iwish all my a safe and happy holidayand season and wish allneighbors my neighbors a safe happy holiday the very best in the New Year It s a true joy to be part of such season and the very best in the New Year Its a true a wonderful community Happy Thanksgiving neighbors joy to be part of such a wonderful community Like a good neighbor State Farm is there Like a good neighbor State Farm is there Sharon Kim Agent 2475 Albany Avenue West Hartford CT 06117 Bus 860 233 8511 sharon kim mgor statefarm com I m thankful to be part of such a wonderful community I wish all my neighbors a safe and happy Thanksgiving Like a good neighbor State Farm is there State Farm Bloomington IL 2006053 Sharon Kim Agent 2475 Albany Avenue West Hartford CT 06117 Bus 860 233 8511 sharon kim mgor statefarm com State Farm Bloomington IL 2006044 62

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68 We are proud to be Ballet Theatre Company’s season 23 sponsor! 236 Park Road, West Hartford, CT 06119860-521-9279 Fax 860-521-1079www.cricketpress.netWe are excited to work on your next proje! BTC Company Dancer Sarah McCahill Photo by Thomas Giroir

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Congratulations BALLET THEATRE COMPANY ON ANOTHER GREAT SEASON For print and digital subscriptions please call 203 333 6688 For advertising information please email advertise hearstmediact com