The Ruth Page Dance Company’s annual performance of The Nutcracker is always a holiday treat, but this season’s rendition brought a fresh vibrancy to the beloved classic. As Chicago’s premiere holiday ballet, it combines the elegance and charm of Tchaikovsky’s iconic score with the company’s signature storytelling, creating an unforgettable experience for audiences young and old.
What made this production so special was the combination of the cast which was made up of local dance students as well as professional ballet artists.
This year, the production was held at three locations in November and December throughout the Chicagoland area giving the audience a variety of locations. They included: Governors State University Center for the Performing Arts in University Park, Northeastern Illinois University’s (NEIU) Salme Harju Steinberg Fine Arts Center in Chicago, and College of Lake County’s (CLC) James Lumber Center for the Performing Arts in Grayslake.
The performance was directed by the artistic team of Victor Alexander, Dolores Long, Birute Barodicaite, Dori Rothschild, Chrissy Lacny, and Renardo Johnson.
Taking your children to see The Nutcracker is usually their first exposure to classical music, creating a lifelong appreciation for the genre. They will be mesmerized by the dancing, music, stunning visuals, and story line. Your kids will associate The Nutcracker with holiday memories.
Brilliant Choreography and Magical Set Design
The choreography, created by the late Ruth Page herself, has become an indelible part of the Chicago holiday landscape. The Snow Scene was one of the highlights of the performance. The ethereal dance of snowflakes, with swirling choreography set to the famous snow-themed music, was enthralling as the snow fell in perfect synchrony with the dancers’ movements. In the “Land of Sweets,” the vibrant costumes and colorful sets transported the audience to a world of confectionery delights and energy. The final scene, where Clara and her Nutcracker Prince bid farewell to the Land of Sweets, moved with grace and emotional depth, capturing the bittersweet sense of childhood wonder as they faded into the embrace of growing up.
The Ruth Page Center for the Arts has an exciting lineup of events scheduled for 2025, including performances, community engagements, and training programs.
Adult Open House Scheduled for April 27, 2025, from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm, this free event invites the community to tour the facility, explore studios, meet instructors, and participate in various dance classes.
Center Stage
Taking place on March 21-22, 2025, Center Stage is an annual fundraiser celebrating the legacy of founder Ruth Page. The event features performances by the Center’s In-Residence companies and other Chicago dance groups, with proceeds supporting the In-Residence program.
Ruth Page Legacy Gala
Set for Saturday, May 31, 2025, this annual fundraising gala brings together families, the dance community, patrons, and supporters to celebrate and support the arts.Spring Show
Scheduled for June 13-14, 2025, the Ruth Page School of Dance’s end-of-year concert and graduation ceremony showcases the progress and artistry of its dancers.
Ruth Page Festival of Dance at Ravinia
Planned for June 21, 2025, this event continues Ruth Page’s legacy by presenting local, national, and international dance artists, alongside the season finale of the Ruth Page Professional Dance Training Program.
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