The Old Town Temecula Community Theater came alive with holiday magic as the Temecula Ballet Company presented its enchanting rendition of The Nutcracker on November 22, 23, and 24. Under the direction of the esteemed Artistic Director and Founder Svetlana Minardi, the performance captivated audiences and filled the theater to capacity.
From the moment the curtains rose, it was clear that this year’s production was a labor of love. The classic tale, set to Tchaikovsky’s timeless score, whisked the audience into a world of wonder, where young Masha’s dream unfolded with dazzling snowflakes, brave toy soldiers, and the elegant Sugar Plum Fairy.
The ballet company’s dancers showcased exceptional talent and precision. Masha, portrayed by rising stars Mika Christensen (age 12) and Sophia Reed, who have both been dancing with Temecula Ballet for several years, embodied youthful curiosity and grace. Clara is typically used in most versions of The Nutcracker, however, this production used “Masha” which is the Russian version of Clara.
David Waisman’s commanding performance as the Nutcracker Prince earned thunderous applause. Waisman has been dancing since he was a child, but stated he did not take it seriously until he was 16 years old. He fell in love with ballet and has since made it his passion, with his primary teacher being his mother, Svetlana Minardi.
The Sugarplum Fairy was gracefully danced by accomplished ballerina Laura Theisen, who began dancing at the age of 4, in Omaha, Nebraska. In addition to performing with various ballet companies across the country, she earned a BA in dance pedagogy and a minor in biology. She moved to California in 2020 to join the California Ballet and has also worked with Ballet Collective San Diego Laura joined Golden State Ballet for their 2021-2022 inaugural season as a corps de ballet member.
The Snow Queen, danced by Malia Lewis, left the audience mesmerized with her ethereal movements as well. The cast was so vast it would be impossible to give each dancer their due recognition but suffice it to say, the whole production was a testament to the dedication and passion of the teachers, dancers, and Founder Svetlana Minardi, who originally hails from Ukraine.
The production’s artistry extended beyond the dancers. The set design featured a grand Victorian parlor, a mystical Land of Snow, and a whimsical Kingdom of Sweets. The Nutcracker is a timeless experience that brings the community together through art and tradition. All the dancers were amazing, from the young 6-year-olds, like Tatum Schuler, to the more mature adults who did not disappoint with their obvious passion for dance and performance.
As the dancers took their final bows to a standing ovation, the Old Town Temecula Community Theater once again reminded attendees of its place as a cherished venue for the arts. For three unforgettable evenings, The Nutcracker proved that the spirit of the season shines brightest through creativity and community.
