The Nutcracker ballet has long been a cherished holiday tradition,
and at Sacred Heart Academy, this festive classic takes
on a special significance. For over 30 years, the academy has been at
the forefront of this tradition, kicking off the holiday season by
showcasing a student-led performance that not only captivates
audiences but also empowers the young women taking center stage.
While Long Island boasts various Nutcracker performances, Sacred Heart
Academy's rendition stands out as a unique, all-girl production and as
a full-length ballet run by a school. What makes this performance
truly remarkable is that it is entirely student-led, with young women
assuming key roles as executive board members, choreographers, costume
designers, and technical stage crew. Supported by administration,
moderators, and parents, these girls not only shine in their on-stage
performances but also gain invaluable leadership skills that will
serve them well throughout their lives.
Past alumnae of Sacred Heart Academy's Nutcracker have gone on to
achieve remarkable success, becoming Rockettes, attending prestigious
institutions like Juilliard and Ballet Conservatories, leading dance
programs and student governments in their colleges, and emerging as
community leaders and industry experts nationwide.
The Nutcracker has become a staple at Sacred Heart Academy, running
annually for over three decades on the school premises in Hempstead.
Founded in 1949, Sacred Heart Academy is an all-girls Catholic college
preparatory school sponsored by the Sisters of St. Joseph.
Sacred Heart Academy invites guest artists to portray the role of
Cavalier, with past performers including Broadway dancers and seasoned
professionals. Young dancers from Sara DeGennaro’s Tap to Pointe Dance
Center in Malverne also grace the stage as angels.
This year's eagerly awaited performance featured Sacred Heart
Academy seniors in key roles, with Evalina Lentini as the Sugar Plum
Fairy, Caroline Barker as Clara, Veronica Biondi as The Nutcracker,
Elizabeth Hughes as Snow Queen, and Athena Ambizas as Dew Drop Fairy.
Aside from the guest performer Cavalier and the spirited annual
appearance of Sacred Heart teacher Joseph Cascio as Uncle
Drosselmeyer, Sacred Heart's Nutcracker has a unique all-girl cast.
From portraying dads and little brothers to taking on roles like The
Rat King and The Nutcracker, the girls flex their performance skills
and showcase their versatility and talent.
As the curtains rose on this enchanting performance, the audience enjoyed a visual treat and a celebration of girl power in our community and the boundless potential that emerges when women support
and uplift each other. Join us in applauding the all-girl student leaders who are making a
powerful statement through the language of dance.
and at Sacred Heart Academy, this festive classic takes
on a special significance. For over 30 years, the academy has been at
the forefront of this tradition, kicking off the holiday season by
showcasing a student-led performance that not only captivates
audiences but also empowers the young women taking center stage.
While Long Island boasts various Nutcracker performances, Sacred Heart
Academy's rendition stands out as a unique, all-girl production and as
a full-length ballet run by a school. What makes this performance
truly remarkable is that it is entirely student-led, with young women
assuming key roles as executive board members, choreographers, costume
designers, and technical stage crew. Supported by administration,
moderators, and parents, these girls not only shine in their on-stage
performances but also gain invaluable leadership skills that will
serve them well throughout their lives.
Past alumnae of Sacred Heart Academy's Nutcracker have gone on to
achieve remarkable success, becoming Rockettes, attending prestigious
institutions like Juilliard and Ballet Conservatories, leading dance
programs and student governments in their colleges, and emerging as
community leaders and industry experts nationwide.
The Nutcracker has become a staple at Sacred Heart Academy, running
annually for over three decades on the school premises in Hempstead.
Founded in 1949, Sacred Heart Academy is an all-girls Catholic college
preparatory school sponsored by the Sisters of St. Joseph.
Sacred Heart Academy invites guest artists to portray the role of
Cavalier, with past performers including Broadway dancers and seasoned
professionals. Young dancers from Sara DeGennaro’s Tap to Pointe Dance
Center in Malverne also grace the stage as angels.
This year's eagerly awaited performance featured Sacred Heart
Academy seniors in key roles, with Evalina Lentini as the Sugar Plum
Fairy, Caroline Barker as Clara, Veronica Biondi as The Nutcracker,
Elizabeth Hughes as Snow Queen, and Athena Ambizas as Dew Drop Fairy.
Aside from the guest performer Cavalier and the spirited annual
appearance of Sacred Heart teacher Joseph Cascio as Uncle
Drosselmeyer, Sacred Heart's Nutcracker has a unique all-girl cast.
From portraying dads and little brothers to taking on roles like The
Rat King and The Nutcracker, the girls flex their performance skills
and showcase their versatility and talent.
As the curtains rose on this enchanting performance, the audience enjoyed a visual treat and a celebration of girl power in our community and the boundless potential that emerges when women support
and uplift each other. Join us in applauding the all-girl student leaders who are making a
powerful statement through the language of dance.
See you next year for The Nutcracker 2024!