Local Dancers to Perform in “The Nutcracker”

The Company of Dance Arts, (CODA) returns to the stage to present their latest production of “The Nutcracker” at the Count Basie Theatre.

CODA’s “The Nutcracker” is the only area production to feature the choreography of Peter Anastos set to Tchaikovsky's celebrated score, with elaborate Victorian costuming and the famous Christmas tree that "grows". Under the direction of Founder, Jennifer James Church and Artistic Directors, Nicholas and Shayne Mishoe, CODA has been performing "The Nutcracker" in area theatres for over 25 years.

Principals and soloists from New York City companies join the Company's cast of over 130, including children and pre-professional dancers selected from open auditions held in September. The leading role of the Sugarplum Fairy will be performed by Tiffany Mako of Toms River and Maritess Escueta of Eatontown. Dancing with the Sugarplum Fairy as her Cavalier are guest artists, Jerimy Rivera and Nicholas Wright III. Toms River resident Cailey Bruno and Emily Ghandi of Farmingdale share the role of Snow Queen, and Maria Ruggeri of Holmdel and Maritess Escueta perform as the Dew Drop Fairy. Additional guests include, Oliver Fetter (Lead Father, Mouse King and Spanish), Richard Glover (Snow, Arabian) Chauncie Parchment (Snow,Russian), Carlos Kerr (Snow King, Spanish) and Gregory Manning (Arabian, Russian). Academy of Dance Arts students Lauren Masciana, 13 of Middletown and Catherine Escuetta, 12 of Eatontown will share the role of Clara. Rayna Ruggeri, 10 of Holmdel and Emily Laughinghouse, 11 of Fair Haven will share the role of Fritz.

Tickets are available through the Count Basie Theatre Box Office at (732) 842-9000 for the performances on Saturday, Dec. 10 and Sunday, Dec. 11 at 1:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m. Tickets are $35, $25, and $15 with a $3 discount (two top price levels) for seniors and children 12-years-old and under. Visit www.countbasietheatre.org for details