Boston Ballet’s Enchanting Journey with “The Nutcracker”
Prelude to a Tradition
Discover the captivating saga of Boston Ballet’s rendition of “The Nutcracker,” a festive spectacle cherished by audiences for over fifty years. The seeds for this beloved tradition were sown even before the official establishment of Boston Ballet in 1963. In 1958, E. Virginia Williams, the visionary founder, initiated a concert troupe comprising Boston Ballet School students named the New England Civic Ballet. This troupe embarked on regional tours, showcasing more miniature ballets, including Williams’ three-act version of “The Nutcracker.”
The Inception of a Holiday Classic
1963 marked a pivotal moment for Boston Ballet, thanks to a grant from the Ford Foundation, influenced by a recommendation from George Balanchine. This financial boost led to the professional inception of the Company, which promptly staged its inaugural full-length “The Nutcracker” performance in December of the same year. By 1965, with the launch of its first subscription series, Boston Ballet solidified “The Nutcracker” as an annual holiday tradition, enchanting audiences year after year.
Milestones in the Magical Journey
- 1965 Debut: The Back Bay Theatre hosted the first public performance featuring E. Virginia Williams’ choreography, with Arthur Fiedler conducting and star guest artists Maria Tallchief and Earle Sieveling.
- Venue Transitions: In 1969, the production found a new home at the Music Hall, later known as the Boch Center Wang Theatre, where it remained for over thirty years.
- Artistic Enhancements: The 1970s and 1980s brought significant artistic contributions, including television features, new scenery by Helen Pond and Herbert Senn, and exquisite costumes by David Walker.
- Unforeseen Challenges: In 1982, an unexpected venue change to the Hynes Auditorium showcased the Company’s resilience, ensuring “The Nutcracker” performance continued.
- Innovative Additions: The late 1980s and early 1990s introduced new characters, like Franz the Dancing Bear, and celebrated the ballet’s centennial with special events.
- Renewed Grandeur: The 1995 30th-anniversary production boasted 350 new costumes and completely restored scenery, enhancing the visual splendor of the performance.
- Continuous Evolution: The early 2000s witnessed new creative directions under Artistic Director Mikko Nissinen, including revamped staging, choreography, and dazzling set designs.
Celebrating a Legacy
Boston Ballet’s “The Nutcracker” has not only become a staple of the holiday season but also a testament to the enduring appeal of this classical ballet. With each passing year, new generations of dancers, designers, and audiences contribute to the rich tapestry of this production’s history. As we look back on over five decades of magical performances, the journey of Boston Ballet’s “The Nutcracker” unfolds, inviting everyone to partake in its timeless joy and wonder.
