The Holiday Season consists of many diverse traditions. Trimming the Tree, buying gifts, gathering for feasts. But, amongst those great moments, The Nutcracker is not your typical seasonal custom. But, despite its unusual flavor, this off-beat story has become a highly recognized classic.
The Nutcracker appears quite different, than most holiday events.
It originated from a story with a somewhat dark message. Titled The Nutcracker & the Mouse King, by German author, E.T.A. Hoffmann (in 1816). The harsh undertones happens to be typical for stories of the day. (By comparison, other tales were originally unpleasant, as well. Such examples include, Pinnochio (originally lynched & nearly killed), The Little mermaid (who actually dies in the original story), and, Little Red-riding Hood.
The most familiar adaptation was completed in 1892. A ballet musical was first performed in St Petersburg, Russia.
Since then, Toy nutcrackers have become more recognizable than Model-Trains, or stuffed animals.
Amongst personal memories, this should be considered another valuable addition to the Christmas season. Previous generations lacked the complete holiday features, we enjoy today. And, The Nutcracker is, but, one of those 19th century creations.
The following playlist features random moments, in no particular order. While, the 2nd Nutcracker-playlist displays encore performances of its most popular moments.
Note, that, each performance varies upon professional skill-levels.
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There have been several adaptations of The Nutcracker. But, perhaps, the most progressed appeared in Disney's Animated film, Fantasia (1940). This three-part sequence brought a whole new approach. (The Complete 120 minute DVD can be purchased online. The following clip from fantasia is merely a produce of fair usage). there are also additional attempts from around the world.
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An Ice Skating version has also become popular.
Here's an older version of The Nutcracker on Ice.
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This page is still under construction.
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moments at Rockefeller Center
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