Nutcracker Program

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New patients always welcome Most major insurances accepted Nutcrackerthe Casse Noisette Early in 1891 the legendary composer Peter Ilyich Tchaikovsky received a commission from the Imperial Theatre Directorate at St. Petersburg to compose a one-act lyric opera together with a ballet for presentation during the following season. Accepting Tchaikovsky’s choice of sub- ject for the opera, the Theatre Directorate selected Alexandre Dumas’ French adaptation of E.T.A. Hoffmann’s tale The Nutcracker and the Mouse King for the ballet.

Tchaikovsky was not pleased with the subject selection because he felt it did not lend itself to theatrical presentation and was therefore quite unsuited to serve as a scenario for a ballet. Both the opera and ballet were presented on December 18, 1892. The ballet, conducted by Ric- cardo Drigo, was received somewhat unfavorably. Dance historians have attributed this to the Nutcracker’s unusual story, which was quite different from the romantic tales normally presented.

The Nutcracker choreography was begun by the redoubtable Marius Petipa. The balance of the work was taken up by his assistant, Leon Ivanov, when Petipa fell ill. According to historical accounts, when the ballet was finally produced, Petipa refused to have his name linked with it, feeling his own part in its creation was insufficient to be publicly announced. However, dance historians have recognized his contribu- tion, and the original choreography is generally credited to both Petipa and Ivanov.

First presented in Western Europe by the Sadler’s Wells Ballet at the Sadler’s Wells Theatre in London, January 30, 1934, the production was staged by Nicholas Sergeyev after the original Petipa-Ivanov version. The first full-length American Nutcracker was produced by the San Francisco Ballet in 1944, with choreography by William Christensen.

Although constantly changing over its eighty-plus-year history, one of the landmark Nutcrackers was brought to the Metropolitan area in 1954 by the New York City Ballet with choreography by George Balanchine. Subsequent notable Nutcrackers have been choreo- graphed and staged by Rudolf Nureyev, Royal Swedish Ballet (1967) We wish everyone a happy holiday season.

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TIMES BEACON RECORD NEWS MEDIA 185 Route 25A, Setauket, New York 11733 631.751.7744 tbrnewsmedia.com ©154046 and England’s Royal Ballet (1968), and Mikhail Baryshnikov, American Ballet Theatre (1976). With literally hundreds of productions nation- wide, the Nutcracker has become the quintessential holiday classic, presented in theatrical productions on ice, on the dance stage and in the movies. This American holiday staple has also become an artistic lifeline, often providing over fifty percent of a dance company’s annual ticket sales.

The basic libretto of the Nutcracker has as many interpretations as there are staged versions. The characters’ names often change, and plot twists are added. The only constant is the music. Tchaikovsky’s musical genius created one of the most recognizable and enduring scores ever written. An abbreviated version, the Nutcracker Suite, is one of the most recorded selections in classical repertoire. In the final analysis, it is the music that has truly given the Nutcracker a life of its own.

The Nutcracker is set in Western Europe during the 1800s. A doctor and town mayor, Hans Stahlbaum delights in holding large holiday gatherings for family and friends. His two children, Clara and Fritz, anxiously await the arrival of guests. The snow evokes a pleasantly festive atmosphere as the guests arrive. Tardy as always, Clara’s god- father, Herr Drosselmeyer, arrives with special fanfare. He causes quite a stir and then mesmerizes and dazzles all onlookers with his exquisite mechanical dolls.

Presents are distributed to all the children, and Fritz receives a rocking hobby train. A bit jealous, Clara approaches Drosselmeyer for her gift. He teases her with a large mouse doll. Fritz pulls a baby mouse from the mother mouse’s apron and sends Clara scampering. Drosselmeyer quickly makes amends and offers Clara an unusual prize, a colorful Nutcracker. Clara is instantly enthralled with the gift. Sibling rivalry takes hold, and in a tussle to wrest the Nutcracker away from Clara, Fritz breaks him. Drosselmeyer repairs the poor Nutcracker, but Clara is disappointed. He promises that all will be well.

Evening overtakes the party, and the guests depart. Clara is shooed to bed. Peace and quiet prevails in the Stahlbaum residency, or does it? Clara has awakened and, longing for her Nutcracker, comes back to the living room. She quickly finds her doll and falls asleep again. Thus begins Compliments of

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Thematically, Clara is cast as a mid-teen just blossoming into adult- hood. She is young enough to display childlike emotions, yet mature enough to fantasize that a doll turned human can have idyllic qualities of heroism, selflessness, tenderness and a zest for adventure. Her at- traction to the handsome Nutcracker is only natural; Clara has created him in her mind’s eye. She has molded a doll into a living being, and a prince at that. Her devotion to the Nutcracker is symbolized by her brave effort to save him from being vanquished by the evil Mouse King. As the Nutcracker becomes more lifelike, the dream sequence carries her to a romantic interlude, a magical winter wonderland and an exotic garden in the Land of the Sweets.

The character of Drosselmeyer has almost endless possibilities. The Seiskaya version adopts the characterization of him as Clara’s god- father, who is an eccentric maker of magnificent mechanical toys. A widower with no children of his own, he delights in teasing and pleasing his only godchild. Drosselmeyer’s relationship to the Nutcracker is simply that of an artisan. Clara’s dream vision of Drosselmeyer is an expression of her affection for him and an extension of the attributes she sees in him.

The Nutcracker presents two major ensemble dances: the Dance of the Snowflakes and the Dance of the Flowers. One of the strengths of the Seiskaya Company has always been ensemble segments. Nowhere is this more evident than in these dances. Flowing lines, exact patterns and intricate interplay between corps and soloists are the hallmark of the choreography.

Cyril W. Beaumont, the noted dance critic, historian and author, panned the original 1934 British version of the Nutcracker: “The final scene is merely an excuse for the traditional series of character dances which, in this instance, are seldom appropriate to the situation and, generally speaking, are of indifferent quality.” History has proven that even a revered critic like Mr. Beaumont can be wrong. The Second Act has long been considered the ballet’s highlight. The Seiskaya version of the Land of the Sweets, Act II, reaffirms the classical approach. The scene opens with the Sugar Plum Fairy surrounded by a host of May Your Holiday Season Be Filled with Peace and Joy

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[email protected] www.apxathletics.com angels, followed by the entrance of her court, and the arrival of a nutshell boat with Clara and the Nutcracker. The members of the Sugar Plum’s court represent many lands, as well as characters, from children’s fairy tales. The couple is presented with sweets and delicacies from around the world. The Nutcracker tells of his valiant struggle against the Mouse King and Clara’s heroic efforts. Clara’s dream at this juncture takes on a “sugar and spice and everything nice” tone. Seiskaya’s unusual cho- reographic adaptations frame the character ballet dances with a unique quality.

Beaumont was a lot more generous in his opinion of the Dance of the Snowflakes and, in particular, the Sugar Plum Pas de Deux: “...there are three beautiful ‘classical numbers’ - the pas de deux danced by the Sugar-Plum Fairy and her Cavalier, the latter’s variation, and the ‘Dance of the Sugar-Plum Fairy.’” Seiskaya’s rendition of this famous pas de deux matches the elegance, beauty and charisma of Seiskaya Ballet prin- cipals Brianna Jimenez and Lara Caraiani plus first soloists Eva Pyrros and Jordan Jaramillo with guest artist Darren McIntyre’s consummate artistry. About the pas de deux it can be said, “We saved the best for last.”

Madelyn — Congratulations on your first Nutcracker performance!

Merry Christmas and Happy 2020 Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays from the Zhang Family Congratulations to the entire cast of the Nutcracker IN TI EP M T E S

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Guest Artist Darren McIntyre is a graduate of The Australian Ballet School where he was the recipient of The Dame Peggy Van Praagh Award for Choreography, The Sir Robert Helpmann Bursary, The Young Australian of The Year Arts Award & was a Bronze Medalist at the Society of Dance Awards Australia. Darren was selected to represent Australia at the Prix de Lausanne in Switzerland and invited to represent The USA at The 4th International Ballet Festival of South America in Colombia. He has worked as a freelance artist with such companies as Milwaukee Ballet, The Australian Ballet, The National Ballet of Ireland, The Landestheater Detmold in Germany and Ajkun Ballet Theatre in NYC. Mr. McIntyre has held the positions of Artistic Director of the Montgomery Ballet and Guest in 2017 he served as Artistic Associate, Ballet Artist Master and Guest Artist/Choreographer with the Indiana based, Fort Wayne Ballet. A true lover of his craft, he continues his dance education, having received his American Ballet Theatre Teaching Curriculum certification (Pre-Primary though Level 3) in 2018. This Nutcracker season he dances opposite award winning Seiskaya dancers as he complements the Sugar Plum Fairy with regal majesty as the Cavalier. Max Lippman returns to the Staller Stage, Guest courtesy of Butler Ballet, for the fifth consecutive Artist season as the beloved Seiskaya Nutcracker. With each passing year Max places his mark on this iconic character which he has truly made his own. A pursuant of a professional career in ballet, he continues his studies at Butler University. Coming into his own, Max is a professional guest artist not only for Seiskaya, but for ballet companies in the greater Indianapolis area. Regaled by The Smithtown Messenger’s Christina Pandolifi, “This impressive young dancer has grown tremendously over the course of a year as a partner, using every beat of the score to extend himself....” Last year Max captured attention at Butler when Cameron Basden, a Gerald Arpino Foundation board member, cast Max in Butler Ballet’s staging of Arpino’s Light Rain, the only freshman to be so honored. As Butler Ballet continues to thrill audiences as Indianapolis’ premier Nutcracker, it has provided Max with the ability to expand on this ballet holiday staple, last year as an Arabian Soloist, and this year as a soloist in Butler’s rendition of Waltz of the Flowers. With equal parts of determination, stage presence and technical skill, we leave you with a few things to remember. He’s got talent, and you saw him here first! SEASON’S GREETINGS

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The Butkevich Family Brianna has a singular talent born of focus and passion for her craft. She is unfailingly in character when she performs. As the Shopkeeper’s Assistant in La Boutique Fantasque, a very young Jimenez in a seminal moment had the audience transfixed with her consummate dancing and acting skills. Her technical prowess continues to defy her youthful age as seen in Nutcracker 2018 when she reprised her roles as the regal Sugar Plum Fairy and Dew Drop. Her performance as Clara caught the eye of the Smithtown Messenger: “Brianna Jimenez’s rendition of Clara immediately set the tone in Act I. With natural vibrancy that can’t be taught, Jimenez is effortless and ebullient....” This Nutcracker, Brianna will again share her gifts with the audience as the regal Sugar Plum Fairy, the charismatic Clara and effervescent Dew Drop. During BESFI 2019 she again illuminated the Staller Center as she danced opposite Alvin Tovstogray in the riveting Esmeralda Pas de Deux. It was her performance in the Esmerelda Pas de Deux that captured the eye of Broadway Dance World dance critic, Christina Pandolfi, “…Jimenez unsurprisingly delivered strong technique and panache, but it was her confidence that set the stage on fire—and Tovstogray matched her with ease.” Adding to her many accolades she’s finished first place in the BESFI scholarship competition from 2016-2019. Quality of movement is a term that is bandied about but requires more circumspect usage. The epitome of grace, poise and effortless classical technique, Lara has earned plaudits for several roles. A Seiskaya Principal Dancer, Lara’s diligent work in the studio was evident during Nutcracker 2018 with her eloquent interpretation of the Sugar Plum Fairy and Clara. Following her performance as Dew Drop Christina Pandolfi from the Smithtown Messenger opined “... and the delicate Lara Caraiani, who was an ideal Dew Drop; an ever-dainty accent to accentuate her following of Flowers.” This year, a sophomore in high school, and in the landmark role, she takes the stage opposite Darren McIntyre, as the elegant Sugar Plum Fairy. A full dance card this holiday season, she rounds out this Nutcracker as a delightful, charismatic Clara and as the Dew Drop Fairy where she will lead her glistening floral bouquet in the Waltz of the Flowers. In BESFI 2019, the audience witnessed Lara’s technical precision and charm as she performed with Oklahoma City Ballet Principal Dancer, Alvin Tovstogray, in the Raymonda Pas de Deux. With elegant long lines and polished technique, Lara continues to polish her repertoire with each performance. To add to her hearty list of accomplishments, Lara has been the recipient of several BESFI scholarships and garnered second place in this year’s senior division. Merry Christmas The Caraiani Family Other Featured Performers Guest Artists First Soloists v Featured Soloists v

Dr. Sergey Butkevich, Guest Artist Role: Herr Drosselmeyer An academically decorated Mathematician and a Researcher for a quantitative investment fund company, Sergey inspires the question, why take on the challenge of the eccentric, yet nurturing, Drosselmeyer? Very simply, Sergey loves the arts! He is also a member of the Staller Center Advisory Board.

Jenna Lee Guest, Former Principal Roles: Chocolate Soldier, Chinese, Flower Soloist A Seiskaya alum and principal, Jenna will leap to celestial heights, complemented by precise Baryshnikov sweeping turns, in the role near and dear to her heart, Chocolate Soldier. A dancer with great versatility and range, she will also take the stage in Chinese, Flower Soloist and in Snow.

Eva Pyrros, First Soloist Roles: Sugar Plum Fairy, Snow Queen, Doll Eva will illuminate the stage as the elegant Sugar Plum Fairy opposite her Cavalier, guest artist Darren McIntyre. Eva’s gorgeous extensions and secure turns ensure that this statuesque ballerina will once again excel as the Snow Queen and enchant the audience as the mechanical Doll.

Jordan Jaramillo, First Soloist Roles: Sugar Plum Fairy, Doll, Chinese, Flower Soloist Partnered with guest artist Darren McIntyre, Jordan will perform, the Sugar Plum Fairy Pas de Deux, the pinnacle of the second act. Jordan brings to the role of Sugar Plum her exquisite technique and elegance. Doll and Chinese further highlight her dynamic turns and high elevation.

Julia Virnelli, First Soloist Roles: Snow Queen, Doll, Bo Peep, Chinese A dancer who epitomizes the classic ballerina, Julia will once again perform with beautiful artistry and sophistication as the shimmering Snow Queen. As Doll she will delight the audience with her precise pirouettes. Her demure stage presence makes her a quintessential Bo Peep.

Rachel Bland, First Soloist Roles: Snow Queen, Doll, Chocolate Soldier, Chinese Returning to the majestic role of Snow Queen, Rachel will illuminate the stage with musicality, elegant lines and extensions. Her masterful turns, athleticism and flawless technique will amaze as she performs Chocolate Soldier, Chinese and the mechanized Doll.

Kyra Allgaier, First Soloist Roles: Bo Peep, Chinese, Friend of Clara, Flower Soloist Perfectly matched to her temperament, Kyra will tend to her flock as graceful, gentileBo Peep. Later her elongated extensions and perfectly executed a la seconde will capture the audience in Chinese. The roles Flower Soloist and Friend of Clara will complement Kyra’s performance range.

Maya Butkevich, First Soloist Roles: Clara, Dew Drop, Fritz Maya’s diligence in the studio has landed her two new roles. Taking the stage for the first time as Dew Drop, Maya leads her corps of Flowers with a youthful flair and elegance. As a charismatic Clara, she nostalgically takes the stage with her real-life father who portrays Herr Drosselmeyer.

Madison Valenta, First Soloist Roles: Chinese, Flower & Arabian Soloist, Friend of Clara This year’s performance is not short of talent! Case in point will be made when Madison performs Chinese with elevated extensions and precision turns. She’ll entrance the audience with mesmerizing technique as an Arabian Soloist, then lend her musicality in Flowers and Friend of Clara.

Skylar Neuf, Featured Soloist Roles: Fritz, Friend of Clara, Snow How do you get featured roles at Seiskaya? Practice, practice, practice. When her friends were at the beach this summer, Skylar was at the studio. The payoff? Well for this rising Seiskaya star, rich with stage presence and strong technique, it got her the breakout role of the young, mischievous Fritz.

Nina Zhang, Featured Soloist Roles: Bo Peep, Chinese, Flower Soloist Flexible, without question, hungry for roles? Oh yes she is! Another young standout this year, Nina leads her flock of sheep through the Land of Sweets, as the impish Bo Peep, showcasing her high extensions and her signature flexibility. Her assured turns will not disappoint in Chinese and Flowers. Merrill Lynch Global Wealth Management

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Guests at Party C. Bland A. Caraiani J. Franco M. Gonzalez D. Lettiere Mi. Martufi C. Morlas J. Morlas

Children at Party A. Boryushkina A. Brogan M. Bronson A. Carter A. Franco V. Franco K. Hughes M. Lettiere S. Liu C. Martufi Ma. Martufi A. Morlas I. Morlas C. Muller A. Nyvall A. Perez-Canoa C. Ruotolo A. Savino B. Storke M. Storke E. Tramontana C. Tullio D. Vaisman Ja. Wei Jo. Wei A. Wigand Vc. Ye A. Zhang Na. Zhang Governess: A. Leiva Congratulations, Brianna Jimenez and the Cast of Nutcracker 2019

“Let them praise His name with dance” ~ Psalm 149 Merry Christmas & Happy New Year Friends of Clara and Fritz K. Allgaier H. Alonso D. Baranowski R. Bland B. Borch F. Brazeau M. Butkevich S. Creedon J. Jaramillo D. Kent Ma. Martufi S. Neuf E. Pyrros R. Sama A. Samara M. Valenta J. Virnelli Vv. Ye Ni. Zhang

Maids: N. DiFiore, L. Lee Doll: E. Pyrros, J. Jaramillo, R. Bland, J. Virnelli Chocolate Soldier: B. Jimenez, J. Lee, R. Bland Nutcracker: M. Lippman

Mouse King: J. Levy Mice (*Soloists) H. Alonso* S. Carter A. Chandler* K. Hughes* A. Leiva S. Li Ma. Martufi I. Morlas* V. Pennachio R. Sama A. Samara Ax. Tramontana* K. Urso A. Zhang*

Soldiers A. Boryushkina M. Bronson A. Franco V. Franco M. Lettiere S. Liu C. Muller A. Nyvall A. Perez-Canoa C. Ruotolo A. Savino B. Storke M. Storke E. Tramontana C. Tullio D. Vaisman Ja. Wei Jo. Wei A. Wigand Vc. Ye

Cavalry (*Captain): Al. Tramontana*, N. Brogan, S. Chen, J. Morlas, P. Tsui

Snow Queen: E. Pyrros, R. Bland, J. Virnelli Snowflakes K. Allgaier D. Baranowski R. Bland B. Borch F. Brazeau A. Brogan M. Butkevich S. Creedon J. Jaramillo D. Kent J. Lee Ma. Martufi S. Neuf V. Pennachio E. Pyrros R. Sama A. Samara K. Urso M. Valenta J. Virnelli Vv. Ye Ni. Zhang

Intermission Congratulations for another spectacular year Julia!!!

Thank you for sharing every step along the way with us!!! We love you!!!

Crystal, Kristen, Emma, Davis , Mom & Mark ACT II In order of appearance:

Sugar Plum J. Jaramillo E. Pyrros L. Caraiani B. Jimenez

Angels A. Boryushkina A. Carter A. Franco V. Franco M. Lettiere S. Liu A. Perez-Canoa C. Ruotolo A. Savino M. Storke E. Tramontana Ja. Wei Jo. Wei A. Wigand

Spanish Dancers: J. Hsu, H. Alonso, S. Creedon

Arabian Dancers (*Soloists) D. Baranowski R. Bland B. Borch* F. Brazeau S. Creedon* J. Jaramillo* D. Kent S. Neuf V. Pennachio E. Pyrros* R. Sama M. Valenta* J. Virnelli* Vv. Ye Ni. Zhang

Chinese: K. Allgaier, R. Bland, J. Jaramillo, J. Lee, E. Pyrros, M. Valenta, J. Virnelli, Ni. Zhang

Trepak: D. Baranowski, B. Borch, A. Chandler, K. Hughes, V. Pennachio, A. Samara, K. Urso, Vv. Ye, A. Zhang

Cossack: H. Alonso, A. Leiva, R. Sama

Bo Peep: K. Allgaier, J. Virnelli, Ni. Zhang Sheep: A. Chandler, Ma. Martufi, I. Morlas, C. Muller, A. Nyvall, V. Pennachio, K. Urso, D. Vaisman, Vc. Ye, A. Zhang Lamb Chop: A. Carter, C. Ruotolo, Na. Zhang

Mother Ginger: L. Lamendola Polichinelles A. Brogan S. Carter A. Chandler A. Franco V. Franco K. Hughes A. Leiva M. Lettiere S. Li I. Morlas C. Muller A. Savino M. Storke Ax. Tramontana C. Tullio D. Vaisman A. Wigand Vc. Ye A. Zhang Proud to Support Seiskaya Ballet ~ Susan Hamblem

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Dew Drop: B. Jimenez, M. Butkevich, L. Caraiani Flowers (*Soloists) K. Allgaier* D. Baranowski R. Bland* B. Borch F. Brazeau* A. Brogan M. Butkevich J. Jaramillo* D. Kent J. Lee* Ma. Martufi C. Muller S. Neuf A. Nyvall V. Pennachio E. Pyrros* R. Sama A. Samara K. Urso D. Vaisman M.Valenta* Vv. Ye* Ni. Zhang*

Cavalier: Darren McIntyre Autographs

Seiskaya Nutcracker 2019 May the Spirit of Christmas Bring You Peace, Hope and Love

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Pirouette The Specialty Dance Store We Are Proud to Support Seiskaya Ballet Congratulations to the Entire Cast of Nutcracker 2019 Pirouette Specializes in Pointe Shoe Fittings! 51 Green Street * Huntington * NY 631-271-1863 [email protected]

May visions of Sugar Plums always dance in your head. Love, Mama Happy Holidays From the Samara and Zhang Families We proudly support Seiskaya Ballet

NEW YORK KIDNEY SPECIALISTS www.NYhealth.com

Nicolae S. Caraiani, M.D. Brooke C. Moore, M.D. Mitchel G. Kirsch, M.D. Horia L. Vlase, M.D. Claudio Martincic, D.O. Nand K. Wadhwa, M.D. Rupesh Mehta, M.D.

Nephrology Division of NY Health 2500 Route 347, Bldg. #14A • Stony Brook, NY 11790 Tel: (631) 689-7800 | Fax: (631) 689-3016 Credits Nutcracker Webmaster Karin Engel Rehearsal Mistress Johanna Hsu Rehearsal Assistants Eva Pyrros, Nicole DiFiore Lara Caraiani, Brianna Jimenez, Julia Virnelli, Jordan Jaramillo Costume Mistress Sue DiFiore Assistant Costume Mistress Nicole DiFiore Costume Design & Execution Kathy Baker, Birgitta Bergeman, Ronni Camhi, Sue DiFiore, Karen Kralik, Kathi Kwiecinski, Vaso Mavrianos, Laura Schifano, Caroline Wilks, Ashley Bland Costume Detailing Johanna Hsu, Kathleen Alonso, Andrea Savino, Denice Franco, Dani Lettiere, Michelle Martufi, Alison Tramontana, Ianina Vaisman Audio Recording Engineer Andrew Nittoli Sculptures/Art Work Matt Targon/Bill Meehan Props Manager Neil Creedon Stage Crew Chris Bland, Joe Franco, Mark Gonzalez, Bob Nyvall Green Room Supervisors Denise Gonzalez Scenery Painted by Scenic Art Studios, Inc., Norwalk, CT Scenery Design Assistant Anita Wasilewska Choreography, Spanish Dance Loretta Celitan Administrative Services Yan Yu, Karin Engel, Lisa Lee Bios Lisa Lee Program Proofreading Lynn Zhang Community Calendars Lisa Lee Photography Sergey Butkevich, Erik Muller Video Imaging and Editing Erik Muller Electronic Imaging Erik Muller, Yan Yu, Kevin Urso Nutcracker Shoppe Manager Athena Diamond

We would like to acknowledge all those not listed here without whose contributions these performances would not have been possible. Wishing you peace, love and laughter this holiday season

The Sama Family VALIA SEISKAYA Russian-born Valia Seiskaya took her first ballet lessons in Greece at the age of six. Her teacher was Adam Morianoff, also a Russian émigré. (Valia was experiencing difficulty learning Greek; thus, it was natural for her mother to seek out a fellow countryman.) At nine she became a scholarship student, showing prodigious technique—for ex- ample, entrechat huit, eight beats, in centre—by age ten. Pointe work also started at ten, character ballet at twelve. Thereafter, Mme. Seiskaya rapidly developed the combination of strong technique and high elevation which would become her hallmark as a professional.

At fifteen, Valia continued her training under Sonia Morianova, the niece of Adam Morianoff, who had recently retired from the National Opera of Greece. She became a member of the National Opera at seventeen, soon attaining the rank of featured soloist, and touring Europe and Russia with the company. At the National Theater her preparation continued under resident ballet masters and choreographers, including the Bolshoi’s Asaf Messerer, Boris Kniazev, Nina Kyrsanova and Olympia Yelodari (former judge at the International Ballet Competitions held in Varna, Bulgaria and Moscow).

In Greece, as in most European countries, ballet students wishing to become professionals must pass comprehensive national level examinations and ob- tain a license. Mme. Seiskaya has fulfilled all her requirements and has been granted both a diploma and a license.

The Seiskaya Ballet School was founded in 1974, one year after Mme. Seis- kaya retired from the National Opera of Greece. At that time she taught all fifteen class sections. In 1976 Studio A was doubled in size to its present 2,500 square feet, and in 1981 Studio B was opened, adding another 1,500 square feet to the dance facility. That year also saw the establishment of the Seiskaya Ballet Academy.

Seiskaya Ballet School continues to be one of the premier institutions of its kind, offering classical and character ballet for the non-career-oriented dancer. The School offers an open-class format, where students are encour- aged to explore fulfillment through dance. Expanded in September 2007, the School was supplanted by OPEN which provides pre-Academy and adult DANCE (through life) “When you dance, your purpose is not to get to a certain place on the floor. It’s to enjoy each step along the way.” ~Wayne Dyer

Congratulations to Skylar Neuf and The Cast of Nutcracker Wishing you and your family love, joy and peace this Christmas season!

The Martufi Family

460 County Road 111 Manorville, NY 11949 631-281-0003

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201 East Main Street, Smithtown, NY 11787 Phone: 631.979.7474 Fax: 631.979.7485 classes, utilizing the Academy staff and facilities.

The Seiskaya Ballet Academy is designed as a professional training program for serious dancers who display the determination, physical attributes and musicality of the career-oriented dancer. Admission to the Academy is by audition only. Since the inception of the Seiskaya Ballet programs, over seventy students have opted for professional careers.

All Seiskaya students are encouraged to participate in the guest teacher and summer workshop programs offered by the Ballet Education and Scholar- ship Fund, Inc. (BESFI). As part of their professional preparation, Academy students’ participation in auditions for company schools and major dance companies are routinely encouraged.

Seiskaya students have compiled an outstanding record of achievement. Through the years, full scholarships have been awarded by every major institution for which they have auditioned, including schools affiliated with American Ballet Theatre and the New York City, San Francisco, Houston, Joffrey, Pacific Northwest, Pittsburgh, Miami, and Boston Ballets. Some of the numerous dance companies Seiskaya students have joined: American Ballet Theatre (5), Boston Ballet (2), Atlanta Ballet (2), Ballet West, Ballet Memphis, Ballet Austin, State Ballet of Missouri, and Milwaukee (3), Eliot Feld, Fort Worth, New Jersey, Pacific Northwest, Pittsburgh, Royal Swedish, Tennessee, Louisville and Tulsa Ballets (2).

In 1994 Seiskaya student Michael Cusumano captured a bronze medal and Special Commendation at the International Ballet Competition (IBC) in Varna, Bulgaria and a coveted Jury Award (a gold medal-level award) at the Prix de Danse, Paris, France. Valia Seiskaya was nominated that year as the Best Teacher and Coach at Varna, one of the few Americans ever to be so honored.

In 1996 Kirov student Rasta Thomas, coached by Valia Seiskaya, reached the pinnacle: a gold medal in the Men’s Junior Division at the 17th IBC, Varna, Bulgaria. Incredibly, he was the first American male dancer ever to win a Junior Division gold and the youngest male dancer ever to do so. In addition, his triumph ended a sixteen-year stretch in which no gold medal was awarded in the Junior Men’s Division.

In 1998 Seiskaya student Elizabeth McGrath established herself as one of America’s potential stars. She represented the U.S. in the 18th IBC in Varna, Bulgaria distinguishing herself by advancing to the semifinal round. In late Smithtown Messenger Brookhaven Review

Ronkonkoma Review Patchogue Medford News

- Bravo - Seiskaya Ballet

P & S Newspaper Group, Ltd. 1 West Main Street, Suite 200 Smithtown, New York 11787

Phillip L. Sciarillo, Publisher Salvatori DiPeri, Publisher Wishing you the best Holiday Season and a Marvelous 2020!

XO The Carter Family

If you dream it, we can bake it!

Call us to book an appointment now at

516-931-6821 Dear Charlie,

When you dance, you put a smile on our faces and joy in our hearts. Keep dancing…..

With All Our Love, Grandma and Grandpa Ruotolo ‘98, she was a top finalist in the8th Concours International de Danse de Paris, France and won double gold at the inaugural YAGP. In 2009 Anna Craddock captured the Grand Prize in the 9th Hellas International Dance Competition and in 2011 garnered 1st place in the American Ballet Competition in Texas.

Additional exemplary efforts in the international arena include those by Alex- andra Kastrinos, Allison Wade, Eileen Houghton, Johanna Hsu, Sophie Vanier, Amy Wilks, Karen Lynch, and Lesli Lyon. Seiskaya students have captured more than twenty national and regional awards, including those from the National Arts and Letters Competition; National Arts Recognition and Talent Competition (Presidential Scholar in the Arts); Saraband, Ltd.; the Amilita Hoffman Memorial Ballet Competition and American Ballet Competition.

During her 17-year professional career with the National Opera of Greece, Mme. Seiskaya gained an affinity for the grand sweep of story-line ballets and operas staged by the company. Her own choreographic works reflect that interest, such as: Street People, Las Damiselas, Forest, MASK, and the Nutcracker. Fresh interpretations of classical favorites La Boutique Fan- tasque, Walpurgis Night and A Night on Bald Mountain complement her signature ensemble works Grand Waltz, Seasons and Dance of the Hours.

Valia Seiskaya is listed in Who’s Who Among Outstanding Americans, was The Village Times 1985 Woman of the Year in the Arts and was elected to the Long Island Volunteer Hall of Fame in 2011. She has received commen- dations from President Reagan, Governor Pataki and Congressman Forbes.

Embarking on its 25th season, the Seiskaya Nutcracker has established itself as the premier event of its kind on Long Island. Total cumulative attendance has eclipsed 100,000. Procedural Notes LATECOMERS will be seated DOCTORS who expect to be called at appropriate intervals in the during a performance may give program as predetermined by their pager/seat number to an Seiskaya Ballet and the theater’s usher who will notify the House management. Viewing monitors Manager. are available in the lobby for those NO FOOD OR BEVERAGES are awaiting seating. permitted in the theater. SOUND RECORDINGS, VIDEO- SMOKING is strictly prohibited. TAPING AND/OR PHOTOGRAPHING of NUTCRACKER MERCHANDISE may any performance without written be purchased in the lobby during permission of the management is intermission and either before or forbidden by law. after the performances. LONG ISLAND DIGESTIVE DISEASE C O N S U L T A N T S

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Merry Christmas The Baranowski Family Merry Christmas and Happy New Year The Alonso Family

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year The Alonso Family

Our best wishes to THE ENTIRE CAST

Harry Boutis, D.D.S.

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2500 Nesconset Hwy., Building #16A Stony Brook, NY 11790 631-265-0030 May your holidays be joyous! from the Samara Family Join Seiskaya Ballet again in 2020 on Friday, May 15th at 7PM and Saturday, May 16th at 2PM when the Ballet Education and Scholarship Fund, Inc. benefit performances will be presented by the Seiskaya Ballet. Returning for BESFI’s 41st season at the Staller Center, the program will feature a one-act ballet, vibrant character dances plus an exciting series of pas de deux. To join our mailing list, call 631-584-0192, email us at [email protected] or write: Seiskaya Ballet; 7 Flowerfield Suite 16; St. James, New York 11780. Auditions for the Seiskaya Ballet Academy are available throughout the year by making an audition reservation at the above phone number. Applicants must be properly attired, with females, if applicable, requiring pointe shoes. A non-refundable audition charge of $25.00 will be collected at the time of the audition.

The 2020 BESFI Intensive Summer Workshop will be held from July 13th through August 21st. The program will continue the three division format which allows students more flexibility in scheduling and is an alternative to sleepaway camps. As always, an outstanding teaching staff will be featured. In its 35+ years, the workshop has attracted such noted instructors as Andre Kramarevsky, Jurgen Schneider, Luis Fuente, Marianna Tcherkassky, Eleanor D’Antuono, Lupe Serrano, Marjorie Tallchief and Cynthia Harvey. When available, students may opt for an abbreviated schedule or simply pay by the class. Class placement priority is given to students attending the entire program. Scholarships are available through an open competition, which is tentatively scheduled for May 31, 2020. Details will be available on request by writing BESFI, P.O. Box 2146, St. James, New York 11780 or by visiting www.besfi.com. BESFI 2020 LI’S MASTER SUMMER WORKSHOP July 13 to August 21

Faculty (subject to change)  ALEXANDRA BERGMAN  MARY CARPENTER  LAURA FEIG  AMY RUGGIERO  ANDREA BERGEMAN-RAK  VASO KIKNA  TBA Classical & Character Ballet, Variations, Contemporary, Pas de Deux, Pointe, Turns, Beats & Port de Bras Scholarship Competition May 31, 2020 Information: (631) 584-0192 or www.besfi.com Protect your world Auto • Home • Life • Retirement

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Call to Schedule a Free Pickup! Seiskaya Generations Rachel Charlie

Charlie,

People may think you are following in my footsteps, but you’re already showing that you are everything I was at your age and so much more. Each day you inspire me to look at life as you do…with excitement, opportunity and gratitude. I’m forever grateful that God chose me as your Mama. Merry Christmas to all … and to all a good night! Home of Fine Greek Cuisine

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