In the American ballet world, winter is inextricably associated with Nutcracker.  As we experience the first light dustings of the season, I am reminded of a time, decades ago now, when I was performing with the Charleston Ballet Theatre of South Carolina.  Not much snow to be had in South Carolina, so dancing the snow scene at the end of Act I Nutcracker always seemed a little out of place…until we were on tour, and we “Flakes” got a little dose of the real stuff.  It made us all quite happy and we danced that evening with a bit more zest in our steps!

Of course here in Colorado we needn’t worry about not having inspiration for Nutcracker's snow scene…And this year, FRCBA dancers will be performing the Spanish variation with the Loveland Dance Academy Nutcracker on December 9 & 10 at Thompson Valley High School.  Be sure to mark your calendars and enjoy this lively rendition as part of your own holiday tradition!

But, Nutcracker is only a small part of what we have in store for you in the near future.  On November 18, come participate in a great evening of fun - Mos Eisely’s Carnivále!  Taking place at The Downtown Artery, this will be a transgalactic circus evening of Star Wars themes, cabaret, aerial, fire, acrobatics and dance performances, interactive carnivále games for children and adults, raffles, a costume contest, live music, Brazilian-inspired cuisine…And not only does it promise to be a uniquely wonderful evening, but, by purchasing tickets, you will also be supporting beloved local arts organizations – including Front Range Classical Ballet Academy, among others.  This event is conceived, organized, and hosted by our own eternally creative Leah Casper through her non-profit organization 6Degrees Collaborative.  Tickets can be purchased at the FRCBA studio or online at moseisleycarnivale.brownpapertickets.com.  Hope to see you all there!

Also note ahead in your calendars some additional upcoming events:

 * Our ever-popular twice yearly Pas de Deux class (ballet partnering) will be offered on the evening of Friday, December 15, at 5:30 pm.  Students should be age 11 through adult and of an intermediate to advanced level.  Bringing your own partner (men need not have experience) is great, but not required.  Please sign up well in advance if you are interested in this class as I will try to rent the Contemporary Dance Academy for the occasion if there are enough students.

 * Sunday, December 17, at 3:30 pm, FRCBA dancers will be performing at the Greyrock Cohousing Common House.  Part of this performance will be accompanied by live musicians!  This performance is open to the public and you are invited to stay for our holiday potluck afterwards!

While every day is an opportunity to give thanks for the many wonderful gifts life brings us, this month, of course, we have a special day to guide us towards that gratefulness.  Here at FRCBA, I have to say that I am ever thankful for the incredible people who walk in my door each day as students…with so much to offer in endless ways.  How very lucky I feel to know you all and to get to work with you every week.  It is a joy!  Thank you all!  And, please remember that in honor of the holiday, there will be no classes from Wednesday, November 22, through Sunday, November 26.