CULTURE CLUB
THE NUTCRACKER
Showing exclusively at the ADC Theatre, London-based dance company Ballet Central is launching an original film of festive favourite ballet The Nutcracker , told through the 12 days of Christmas. Available across nine screenings on 17, 18 and 19 December, the film joins protagonist Clara as she traverses the magical Kingdom of Sweets, meeting the colourful characters from the Nutcracker tale – all performed to the famous Tchaikovsky score. A popular pre-Christmas activity for the whole family (the live performances of The Nutcracker have sold out every year for the past three years), the new film allows audiences to capture the Christmas magic that the Nutcracker is known for while adhering to social distancing measures, which would have otherwise prevented live performances of dance. Ballet Central’s artistic director Christopher Marney explains: “Following the success of the Centrally Connected digital programme that enabled Central’s dance students worldwide to continue their dance training while our studios in London were closed, we have created a special original Nutcracker performance in film for Christmas this year. This allows audiences to see the artistry, skill, drama and colour of the timeless Nutcracker in secure surroundings and ensures our dancers continue to perform.” It is a sentiment that executive director Mark Osterfield shares. “In these challenging times, it is heartening to know that Christopher Marney and Ballet Central can share some exciting dance and Christmas cheer with our audiences, maintaining traditions with typical innovation and verve!” he says. “Dancers live to perform,” continues Christopher, “so, while we won’t experience the thrill of a live audience in Cambridge, we know that the story of The Nutcracker can be shared while also keeping audiences and dancers safe.” To allow for social distancing in the theatre, tickets are limited, and are available to purchase for £7, either from the ADC Theatre box office (01223 300085) or on the website. adctheatre.com
THE FITZ MUSEUM PODCASTS
In keeping with the increased virtual action brought about by lockdown, The FitzwilliamMuseum has launched its own podcast. In My Mind’s Eye explores the museum’s most poignant pieces, referenced by five creatives presenting their responses to artworks. The Fitzwilliam invited Ali Smith, Halima Cassell, Issam Kourbaj, Jackie Kay and Matt Smith to talk about how works of art continue to exist in our memories and imaginations, even when we can no longer visit them directly. The recordings with the artists and writers include their recollections of works of art from the museum, memories and stories from the Scottish Highlands to Pakistan, from soap production in Aleppo, to how a 19th-century drawing is now seen in the context of the Black Lives Matter movement. All five episodes are now available to download from Apple, Spotify or from the Fitz’s beta website. beta.fitz.ms
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