Kozlov Dance Academy would like to introduce some of their dancers who will be dancing the main roles in their upcoming performances of the holiday classic ballet “The Nutcracker” on Saturday, December 13th @ 7:00pm and Sunday, December 14th @ 4:00pm at Cas di Cultura. These student dancers have been rehearsing and preparing for the performances since August, spending many hours working to present a high quality performance next weekend.
Mr. Kozlov, former principal dancer of the famed Bolshoi Ballet, Moscow, and New York CIty Ballet, and director of Kozlov Dance Academy, noticed two very dedicated young sisters, Sannesophie and Liselotte van Doorn, (ages 8 and 6 respectively) and assigned them the leading role of Clara in the production. He has been personally working with them since August not only perfecting their dancing but their artistry and storytelling, as the entire ballet story centers around them and their dream. Sannesophie and Liselotte are very advanced for their age and are good examples of quality classical ballet for young children of their age.
The academy is filled with gifted students whose discipline and determination are exemplary. One of them being Andrea Nuboer, age 12, who has two leading roles as the Nutcracker soldier in the Battle Scene, saving Clara from the Mouse King and the Arabian dancer in the Land of the Sweets. Her precision and musicality make her a pleasure to watch.
Naomi Emerencia, age 15, a student who stands out for her flexibility and movement quality will dance the lead role of Dewdrop in the Waltz of the Flowers as well as the Columbine Doll in the Party Scene. Look for her big leaps and turn as she lights up the stage.
Sharing the role of the Columbine is Sanne Groen, age 15, who will also dance Marzipan in second act. Her nice positions and articulate feet add a beautiful softness to her dancing.
Rounding out the cast of lead dancers are Elisabeth Paalman, age 19, who is also a class assistant at the Academy. She will dance some of the more dramatic roles in the production as the Moor Doll, Mouse King, and the lead dancer in the Chinese Dance.
Maria Elaine de Cuba, age 13, and Isabella Trimon, age 17, will bring their personalities and clean technique to the Marzipan and Spanish dances in Act II. Adding some lively energy and tricks to the performance, Kevin Boukhoudht, will dance the lead role in the Russian Dance.
The community is invited to come see and support these young talents. Tickets are available for Afls. 35 and may be purchased at Cas di Cultura, Van Dorp Bookstore, Bright Bakery, and Kozlov Dance Academy. For more information visit www.kozlovdance.com / www.facebook.com / KozlovDanceAcademy / 564-2670.
