Youth Ballet West (YBW ) has announced its highly-anticipated Christmas show will be performed in Galway on Saturday, December 14, and Sunday, December 15.
The Nutcracker is an enchanting ballet, cherished worldwide for its magical storytelling and Tchaikovsky’s iconic score, which has captivated audiences of all ages for more than 100 years.
Since its establishment, YBW has been a springboard for budding dancers in the West of Ireland The upcoming production of The Nutcracker is a testimony to YBW’s mission to nurture talent through performance experience and mentoring from seasoned industry professionals.
Éabha Schukat, returning to perform as the Sugar Plum Fairy, reflects on her journey: “Participating in 'The Nutcracker' is a full-circle moment for me. I performed it first at 16, and returning now as a guest artist is incredibly exciting. This role is both technically and artistically challenging, and performing in my home city makes it all the more special.”
Joining her on stage is another YBW alumni, Megan Dowd. Captivated as a child by the magic of The Nutcracker, she will portray the enigmatic Drosselmeyer. “The ability to tell a story without words is what I love about ballet. Drosselmeyer is a complex character, and I look forward to exploring the layers of his personality on stage,” says Megan.
YBW remains dedicated to introducing ballet to diverse audiences and fostering a supportive community where young dancers can thrive. As Éabha notes: “I’ve made some of the best friends I have in Youth Ballet West. The positive experiences and training have shaped much of my life.”
Similarly, Megan shares: “The friendships and sense of family in YBW are unmatched. To have connections that began so young and continue to enrich my life is a testament to the supportive environment YBW creates.”
The production promises to be a showcase of talent and creativity, celebrating the spirit of the season through the universal language of dance.
Tickets €25/€20 from www.tht.ie
