The Nutcracker Backstage: The Story and the Magic

I purchased this book for my niece, who has been in her dance company's performance of the "Nutcracker" for the past three years. She and I both loved this book, not only for the incredible photographs of different ballet companies across the U.S. but because it tells about ALL of the characters that are involved in this production. It of course covers the main characters as most of these types of books do but it gives equal time to the "smaller" parts that children normally play in this type of production. It starts with the auditioning process and then proceeds to cover every aspect of a production of this magnitude, including what happens backstage before, during and after the performance. It also describes all of the pre-production aspects, such as making costumes, scenery, etc. Overall, it's an absolutely marvelous book and I would recommend it to anyone who already loves "The Nutcracker" ballet or those whom would like to learn more about it!

The closest experience to Balanchine's own creation. There is so much we feel we know about this yearly tradition, which is performed throughout the world, but even as a music educator I can honestly say that I learned some vital information about individual characters. Much of this was conveyed to me through the beautiful photographs, especially several from a Ms. Vanover, whose 'still' shots seem to move gracefully across the pages of this fine publication. This book should be in the library of every fine arts educator, regardless of his or her performance area. Buy the book!

I've been a ballet mom for more than nine years, which translates into volunteering at more than 72 performances of The Nutcracker. I wish I'd had this terrific book when I was just starting out. It includes a wonderful story-telling version of the ballet, lavish photos, and a great deal of detail about everything that goes on behind the scenes. But the thing I like best about "The Nutcracker Backstage" is the loving way it treats the corps roles, especially the children's parts: the author devotes lots of pictures and prose to the mice, the soldiers, the Polichinelles, the angels and the party children. It's so nice to see a book that pays respectful attention to the many kids who aren't the "star" of the production, but nevertheless are indispensable in their own small way. And it's a lot of fun to see how different companies use costumes and makeup to give a distinct personality to "their" production. This book would make a terrific gift for a child dancing in The Nutcracker or for the dancer's parents.

The authors of "A Parents Guide to Ballet" focus on Tchaikovsky's timeless ballet the "Nutcracker" which has delighted generations of children and parents. This book is for both children and parents about what goes into putting on a rewarding performance of the "Nutcracker." In this, it familiarizes children with auditions, costuming, professional and volunteer production staff, and staging if they should be interested in becoming involved in ballet. The mostly inherent, but occasionally explicit guidance for parents is how they can help children become involved. Bright color photos capture dramatic and colorful scenes from the play; while others equally as bright capture the varied behind-the-scenes activities. Tchaikovsky's music is briefly discussed to round out this introduction to the ballet.