“I think I liked all of my energy being used to do something fun, because I had a lot of energy,” Finlay articulated. Now, that energy is palpable as each boy takes the stage. They relish infusing the classic choreography with their unique flair, thriving under the gaze of a vast audience at every performance.
“I just like that, the 2,500 people looking at you,” Hannon expressed. Stage fright is a foreign concept to these boys. Hannon Hachett, on the left, shares the stage with Sasi Shrobe-Joseph in “I’m more scared to go to swimming lessons than to go on that stage,” Finlay remarked. “I look forward to this.”
Dena Abergel, a valued member of the faculty at the School of the American Ballet responsible for casting children’s roles, finds immense joy in witnessing “The Nutcracker” granting young dancers fresh opportunities annually. “That’s what I adore about ‘The Nutcracker,’ year after year, as each new child gets the chance to showcase their essence on stage,” Abergel shared. “It’s not about conforming to a specific look or demeanor. The role of the Prince is about embodying that character.”
The boys aren’t preoccupied with post-“The Nutcracker” thoughts. However, with the holiday season waning, they are aware that this moment is fleeting. “The way that I look at things, this is a really happy time for me,” Finlay reflected. “So if I’m sad or I’m like depressed for some reason, I can come and I can look back at this time. I can think ‘Oh, this was really fun to do this.'”
Finlay McCurdy-Van Alstine takes center stage. At present, they are savoring every moment, both on and off the stage. “It feels good to make people happy when they’re watching you and you’re doing something and you are making them feel good,” Finlay expressed. “And that’s a good feeling.”
Sneak peek: The Journals of Maria Muñoz
Sneak peek: Shootout at the Shaughnessys
Trump putting blame on Biden for looming government shutdown after tanking bipartisan deal.
