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A Family Affair
Aside from MMB’s professional staff, comprised of Beasley, Skelton,
and Kibble, the gargantuan task of mounting The Nutcracker
production each year is accomplished by countless volunteers, mostly
parents of dancers. From ticket sales to costuming to pulling sets on and
off the stage, MMB is supported by dozens of volunteer parents
who help make the magic of the Nutcracker come alive each December.
“We are so lucky to benefit from the talents of our dancers’ parents, who
give so generously of their time at the most busy time of year,” says
Beasley. “When people hear that our productions are completely run
by volunteers, from backstage to front of house, they are blown away.
It is wonderful to have our MMB families come together at Nutcracker
time to form what we call ‘MMB Family’. It is amazing the things we
have all accomplished together, and I am truly grateful.”
Sharing the Magic
What makes MMB truly exceptional is its unwavering commitment to
community engagement. The ballet company actively fosters a love for
the arts among Mississippi’s youth, offering educational programs,
scholarships, and outreach initiatives. Before opening night, MMB has
historically invited children from organizations such as the Boys and
Girls Club, Sunnybrook Children’s Home, the Mustard Seed, and Big
Brothers/Big Sisters to attend the final dress rehearsal of The Nutcracker,
free of charge. MMB also annually brings a mini-performance into
local schools, along with a mini-ballet lesson and Q&A with the dancers.
MMB has also given outreach Nutcracker performances at Mistletoe
Marketplace, the Mississippi Children’s Museum, and Highland Village.
Giving children from all walks of life the chance to witness the magnificence
of ballet and see, first-hand, why the arts are so important has
been a priority for MMB since its beginning. Janet Shearer, former
MMB executive director and current member of MMB’s advisory
board, fondly remembers a moment when Mississippi Metropolitan
Ballet performed “The Nutcracker” for 1,100 Madison County second
and third graders last November. “MMB’s annual school performances
provide many local students with their first ballet, even their first
theater experience. They are amazed at the space, the backdrops, the
costumes, the music, and especially the dancing, its artistry and its
athleticism” Shearer says. “The children are always absolutely enthralled
by the experience of seeing dancers on the stage. They asked so many
questions after they saw the performance,“ Shearer recalls. “One of the
questions asked most frequently of the dancers after the performance is,
How? How do you jump so high? How do you turn so many times?
How do you dance on your toes? Sharing in these students’ joy and
excitement at these special, educational performances is always such
a magical way to begin the holiday season,” Shearer concludes.
The Magic Continues
As Mississippi Metropolitan Ballet presents its 30th Nutcracker performance,
it is as apparent as ever that the arts bring magic into our lives
and our community. MMB’s devotion to excellence and community
engagement has kept its traditional holiday production shining brightly
after 30 years, filling countless hearts with the magic of the season. Join
MMB, the Sugar Plum Fairy, Clara, and the Nutcracker, alongside
menacing mice, waltzing flowers, sparkling snowflakes, and more, on
December 2 and 3 at Jackson Academy Performing Arts Center. There
are matinee and evening performances each day, perfect for either a
festive family outing or a magical date night with that special someone.
The Land of Sweets Tour is a perfectly sweet treat for young ones, and
will follow both matinee performances. To purchase tickets and to find
out more about MMB, visit www.msmetroballet.com.
Hometown RANKIN • 55