Thanks for tuning in!
I’m beyond thrilled that we at The Columbus Ballet are able to share this very special production of The Nutcracker with you.
When I was first offered the position of Artistic Director back in February, COVID-19 was a tiny blip in the back of my mind. My main focus was the excitement towards creating my own version of the beloved Columbus tradition. Once it became apparent that this pandemic was a serious matter, I began to think that my vision would never come to light. It was through a conversation with my coworkers, Bridget Adams and Laura Johnson, that the thought of still doing a show became a possibility again.
The rehearsal and filming process for this production proved how dedicated our Columbus Ballet family is regarding The Nutcracker. The entire cast quickly adapted to safety protocols put in place in order to rehearse. They adapted further when tossed into non-traditional performance spaces for long filming hours. I want the entire cast to know that their passion for the Ballet and The Performing Arts has not gone unnoticed. Thank you for putting in so much work. I am so proud of each and every one of you!
While we were not able to perform in the traditional setting on the RiverCenter stage, I believe that what we have created in collaboration with Argo Navis Studios is something truly special. By showcasing how incredible the city of Columbus is through this production, I feel that this film is more enchanting than anyone could have ever imagined. And how many dancers can say they were part of a feature length, film version of The Nutcracker?
I need to thank our filming locations, The Columbus Convention and Trade Center, The Columbus Museum, The Rankin Gardens and Atrium, The Columbus Public Library, The National Civil War Naval Museum and The Columbus Botanical Garden, for giving us stages when our normal one was not available. Thank you to Sara Lynn and Jef Holbrook of Argo Navis Studios for collaborating on this project with me. I’m blown away by the magic we were able to create. Thank you to Ed Sutherland, Kannon Haskins and the entire Columbus Ballet Board of Directors for giving me the wonderful opportunity to head this production. Thank you to my Producing Director, Bridget Adams and my Production Coordinator, Laura Johnson, for being by my side throughout this entire process. Thank you to our wonderful volunteers, patrons and sponsors for continuing to support The Columbus Ballet, we could not have done any of this without you!
This has been a difficult year for many, especially those involved in The Performing Arts. While I don’t know how much longer these hardships will last, I do know that we will keep dancing no matter what. I’m hopeful that this production brings you some much needed holiday joy.
Now sit back, relax and enjoy, The Masked Nutcracker.
Kylie Casino
Artistic Director
