PORTLAND — Vivid Motion’s production of “Nutcracker Burlesque,” directed by Brigitte Paulus, opens at 7:30 p.m. today at the St. Lawrence Arts Center, 76 Congress St.
Other shows are planned for 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Sunday and Tuesday through Dec. 23.
“We are pleased to present a spicy, sultry spin off of the classic ballet, sure to warm your heart and tickle your fancies,” a Vivid Motion release states. “ This year’s ‘ Nutcracker Burlesque’ begins with a holiday party hosted by Clara ( played by Allie Munier) and attended by a collection of Charles Schulz themed guests. Amidst them are the Rat King (a shy, genuine guy played by Scott Potter) and the Nutcracker Prince (a debonair playboy played by Lucas Perry) — both vying for Clara’s attention. Fortunately, her good friend Drosselmeyer (played by Shea Murphy) is in attendance to help guide her safely on her magical journey.”
“As the party progresses Clara receives ‘help’ from her friends Naughty ( Daphne Gerard) and Nice ( Jessica Means) in controlling her guests, however the drinking and mayhem continues to spiral out of control until Clara is forced to leave her own party,” the release continues. “Retreating to her room, Drosselmeyer assures her he will take care of things, as he weaves his magic to send her off to dream.”
“Her dream begins with a hip-hop battle between the Nutcracker Prince and the Rat King before Drosselmeyer then guides Clara through the rest of her fantasy, filled with snowflakes, brothels, classic burlesque showcases, and a masquerade ball,” the release states. “As her dream develops she gains glimpses into the true nature of the Prince and the King, helping her to choose the right man in the end.”
Music for the show is provided by the NB Ensemble composed of Ted Millington ( guitar), Jason Leone ( drums), Joseph Paulus (keyboards) and Jairus Paulus (bass).
The company’s dancers range in experience from classically trained ballerinas, to hip-hop gurus, to self-taught newcomers, and hail from all over southern Maine.
Dancers include Venus Murphy, Tali Haberkamp, Margaret Irving, M.J. Emerson, Lauren Kuhlberg, Keith Nadeau, Kat Masters, John Larson, Jill Dennison, Jacqueline Heald, Gerry Shannon, Ellen Rathbone, Catherine Perrault, Byron Nilsen, Breanne Bailey, Andre Demers, Amy Doucette, Ali Shannon and Brigitte Paulus.
Tickets cost $15. Reservations are not accepted, and the show is not suitable for children.
For more information, visit www.vividmotion.org.
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