The Nutcracker

"You've never seen the Nutcracker?" I ask in amazement as both my daughter-in-law and my soon to be daughter-in-law shake their heads. We'll just remedy that right now! I call the box office and order three tickets in the nosebleed section. I made the boys go when they were little, but they were none too impressed. And I never took them again. I have often dreamed of taking my grand daughters when they are a little older and can appreciate it, but here is a chance to go that fell right into my lap. I am excited to introduce them to this classic.

On the drive there I wonder if they will find it interesting or be bored out of their socks. I hope they will like it. We park and pick up our tickets, then climb and climb and climb stairs up past the mezzanine and round into a tight stairwell that you could mistake for an attic entrance. The Eastman Theater was renovated last year, and this is the first performance I have attended in the new space with the box seats and all.

I forgot that the old world elegance of the building is striking to people who have never been there. We settle into our seats while the girls look around at the gilded woodwork, the sparkling crystal chandelier, the plush velvet seats, the ornate statues and wall decor. They giggle about sitting where we could be wiped out if some Phantom of the Opera thing unfolded.

We watch while families with young children fill in seats around us. There is excited chatter everywhere, ushers repeatedly telling audience members that they cannot take pictures in the theater. At last the lights dim and the music begins. The girls are amazed that the orchestra is so far under the stage but can be clearly heard.

The production is as I remember it. Fabulous costumes and props, lots of choreography to match the music, and of course, the music! I have always liked Tchaikovsky, and this particular work is enchanting. I steal glances at the girls. They are glued to the stage, drinking in the beauty, mesmerized by the dancing. The story is easy to follow. At intermission, we make our way to the marble bathroom and stand in line waiting our turn. I ask how they like it and am met by enthusiastic nods and excited descriptions of the favorite parts. Yes! Converts!

The second part is as wonderful as the first, and too soon the whole thing is over. We can barely tear ourselves away, the sugarplums still dancing in our heads. On the drive home, I suggest that they keep this tradition going with their children. After all, everyone should see the Nutcracker live at least once in their lives!