Christmas arrived a month early at Old Willis Dairy this past Sunday evening as Tallahassee’s Pas de Vie Ballet dance company hosted its inaugural “A Very Tallahassee Nutcracker” at the historical Centerville Road property.
Pink and gold seasonal ornaments hung from inside of the barn at Old Willis Dairy’s ceilings as families and Pas de Vie ballet company put on a magical event.
It was also a fundraising event and proceeds benefitted the company and was designed for kids to experience a real live winter wonderland adventure.
“There aren’t many events here in Tallahassee like this. Of course, we have the Nutcracker plays that we can watch on stage but to be able to have the kids interact with the characters and be able to have that whimsical feeling, I think its different,” Bonnie Weinstein said. “I wanted the kids and I to enjoy our weekend outside and this was perfect.”
The school is known for its prestigious reputation of offering a number of classes professionally taught by highly qualified master teachers to help guide their students “step by step to their individual level of accomplishment.”
The school offers free men’s and boys classes on Saturdays, adult classes, intermediate and advance classes as well as private lessons (tuition fees are included).
The event also had lawn games such as sack racing and more, arts and craft, live seasonal music was performed by a string quartet and light hors d’oeuvres were served. Families also sat by smoky fire pits while enjoying yummy s’mores.
Kids were able to participate in dance-along routines, taught by the junior dancers who attend Pas de Vie dance company. Parents stood around to record little feet patter to do Pliés, Sautés, and Changements. To top off the magical day, kids and parents were also greeted by the characters of the Nutcracker.
“I didn’t know my little girl could move the way she did. I can’t dance and her papa sure doesn’t have the moves either so it was pretty amazing to see what she could do. I think all the parents enjoyed it just as much as the kids. It was on everyone’s faces.” Alexis Walker said.
This isn’t the only holiday festivity to look forward to with this company. On Nov. 29 and Dec. 1, Pas de Vie will be showcasing The Nutcracker which will be an abbreviated children’s performance.
“My child will be performing at this event and it’s something you don’t want to miss. It’s adorable, it’s festive, and it’s something that will definitely put you in the holiday spirit.” Victasia Parker said.
Tickets are for sale on their website and The Nutcracker will be performed in Florida A&M University’s Lee Hall Auditorium at 2:30 p.m. both days.