The Wainwright Dance Academy hosted two performances of their 5th Annual Nutcracker Ballet at the Alumni Theatre in Vermilion on December 8. Dancers from SHAPE Studio in Vermilion participated once again, and together the dancers made the traditional Christmas story come to life. Sparkling smiles filled the stage, and the audience was dazzled by ornate costumes and the dancers’ ability to incorporate several props as they made the journey to the enchanted kingdom. “The girls did a really good job. Their passion for telling the story came through in their performance. My little Clara brought the role to life and you could tell she was doing what she loves to do,” said artistic director and choreographer, Sandy Sundborg. Approximately 50 dancers filled the stage. Sundborg noted that some gentlemen who have never danced before did a fabulous job. She was also thankful that a couple of her graduates came back to help this year, as well as to the parent volunteers and dancers for their hard work. Her son, Zak Pinel, came back from Ontario to assist and has been involved for over 20 years; since he was three years old. Overall, the audience couldn’t help but be drawn into the story. Their love of dance, and Christmas cheer was renewed by watching the incredible performances.
