North Fort Myers Academy for the arts presents ‘The Nutcracker’
For the second year, students at the North Fort Myers Academy for the Arts will perform The Nutcracker on stage at the Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall.
It is more than a premier venue, said Principal Dr. Douglas Santini.
“When you look at what our students can do, it reaches them,” he said.
He also will be involved in the production.
“Doing this together brings us together like a family,” Santini said.
“The children really like that our principal is involved, and respect him for going through the artistic experience with them,” said middle school dance teacher Linda Sammons. “And it is very exciting to be on stage at the Barbara B. Mann.”
She is being joined by many other faculty members, including elementary school dance teacher Lori Madl and music, computer and other teachers.
“We have more than 250 students participating, including those in music in the lobby at 6 p.m. before the performance. Over 50 of our musicians will be there.”
That includes Chorus, Jazz Band and violinists. Teachers include Debbie Trout, who oversees chorus and keyboard, Chris Moffat from the band and jazz band and Mitsue Schmidt with the violinists.
The experience is a school-wide event. Business teacher Sue Sommer had her classes design rack cards, posters and brochures.
“Cassidee Kelley created the winning rack card and other talented students did more,” she said.
A massive backdrop for the production is now being completed in the school’s art room. Art teacher Theresa West-Taylo said, “It is a 17-foot by 44-foot backdrop. The students (including advanced art) have created The Land of The Sweets backdrop, with the help of local artist Sorshan. It is real life experience, their ability to experience a real-world connection if they choose to go into this field.”
The one backdrop alone would cost about $5,000 or much more if produced by a professional artist, she said. Now the students have this resume experience.
Marcia Friedman, a teacher in costume design, also will have her student work highlighted.
Some of the key featured artists for the ballet are Nick Lamoureux as The Nutcracker, Sam Marzella as The Mouse King, Hailey Papp as Clara, dancers Mercedes Lewellen, Sarah VanBuskirk and Logan Tingle, and Megan Wolff.
While more than 1,000 tickets are already reserved, there is seating for 1,800, said Santini.
Tickets are $7, $15, $20 and $25 and the performance is reserved seating only. For information or to reserve a seat call 481-4849.
The Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall is at 8099 College Pkwy., Fort Myers.