Getting Performance Ready
The performance run of The Nutcracker is intense, with over 40 shows in just one month. The dancers perform multiple roles not only within a single show, but across multiple shows, so they must maintain a diverse repertoire and a healthy routine.
Which roles are you preparing to perform?
Tigran: Nutcracker Prince, Snow King, Drosselmeier, and Arabian dance.
Chisako: Sugar Plum Fairy, Snow Queen, Clara, Ballerina Doll, Tea, Snowflake, and Flower.
Lily: Tea, Spanish dance, Snowflake, Flower, and Party Parent.
How do you prepare for the challenges of your many roles?
Tigran: I’ve never had to prepare for so many shows before, so of course, I have to sleep better, eat better, and take care of my body. But to be honest, I’m really looking forward to performingalmost every day. As a professional dancer, it takes a lot out of you, but at the same time, it can be a beautiful, transformative experience.
Chisako: Lots of rest, a healthy diet, cardio work, and maintaining my body so that I don’t get hurt throughout the long run.
Lily: In addition to daily Company classes, I take advantage of the supplemental dynamic stretch and Pilates mat classes offered by the Physical Therapy team at Boston Ballet. I have always believed in cardio, so I swim religiously for 40 minutes a day.
What is your favorite moment in The Nutcracker?
Lily: Boston Ballet’s The Nutcracker is truly magical. The Snow Scene in the first act is particularly dazzling. The dramatic crescendos in the music as well as actual snowfall onstage makes the entire experience surreal. In the second act, the role of Dew Drop is one of my personal favorites. Her stunning costume and the dynamic movements of Mikko’s choreography make the role so memorable.
What do you hope the audience takes away from the performance?
Tigran: I really appreciate that our production appeals to all ages. For most professional ballets, you often need adult life experiences to relate to the story, but Mikko adapted The Nutcracker in a way that made kids a central focus of the show. To me, this is special because it provides kids with motivation and inspiration to be on stage, and giving kids the opportunity to attend the ballet and listen to classical music is good and healthy for the soul.
Chisako: I hope that no matter what role I’m performing throughout the run, I am able to touch people and bring extra joy to their holidays.
Lily: I hope to communicate not only the joy I feel about the holidays, but also the sheer gratitude I feel to be a part of the Boston Ballet family.
Witness Tigran, Chisako, and Lily’s first time performing in Mikko Nissinen’s THE NUTCRACKER through December 29 at the Citizens Bank Opera House, and make this beloved tradition a part of your own holiday memories.
