“The Nutcracker” is one of the standards of holiday theater, but nearly every production is of Tchaikovsky’s ballet.
Miners Alley’s children’s theater is going a different route this year, with a production that tells the original tale of the Nutcracker.
Adapted by Rory Pierce from the original book by E.T.A. Hoffman, “The Story of the Nutcracker” takes some inspiration from the ballet, Pierce wanted to honor the source material.
“The Story of the Nutcracker” runs at Miners Alley, 1224 Washington Ave. in Golden, Nov. 21 through Dec. 19. Performances are at 1 p.m. on Saturday.
“The ballet doesn’t really get the story of what’s actually happening in the story. It’s more about themes, and I wanted to get the plot in,” Pierce, who is directing the show, said. “It was also a chance to make this story enjoyable for kids.”
The titular Nutcracker (Kevin Lowry) is a gift to Marie (Emily Hinteregger) on Christmas, but much to her surprise, it’s not just a doll. When her gift comes to life, Marie finds herself in a world she never expected.
The cast includes Lisa Ann Gaylord as the Mouse King and Kate Poling as the Sugar Plum Fairy.
“This production has a lot of flair to it, games and participation opportunities for kids,” Lowry said. “The Nutcracker is just one of the heroes in the story we’re telling.”
For all its fame, just what is it about the story that makes it a mainstay for the holidays?
“It touches on being respectful of the gifts we are given,” Lowry said. “It’s really all about the joys of Christmas — sharing the spirit of the season is right there in the story.”
For Pierce, this children’s production provides a Christmas alternative that all families can enjoy.
“Everyone does ‘A Christmas Carol,’” he said. “We prove we can tell a good story with good themes, and still make it interactive for all ages.”
For more information, call 303-935-3044 or visit www.minersalley.com.