Bahamian Students Join the New English Ballet Theatre on Stage During The Nutcracker

Young Bahamian students stepped into the spotlight this holiday season as they joined the New English Ballet Theatre on stage during its production of The Nutcracker at Baha Mar. Students from Lyford Cay International School, Meridian School, Summit Academy, and Xavier’s Lower School performed alongside the professional company during shows held on December 12 and 13 at the Grand Hyatt Baha Mar Ballroom Stage. For many of the children, the experience marked their first time performing in a full scale international ballet production.

The two night engagement brought the United Kingdom based company to The Bahamas for its first appearance in the country. Audiences were treated to a modern version of the classic holiday ballet that opened at a contemporary Christmas party before moving through snowy scenes and imaginative worlds. The production stood out not only for its fast paced choreography and updated costumes, but also for the way it welcomed local culture into a well known story.

One of the most memorable moments of the performance came during the second act, which featured elements of Junkanoo. VIDEO HIGHLIGHT

Sharing the stage with the visiting dancers gave the students a rare opportunity to learn firsthand what it means to perform at a professional level. Rehearsing and performing with the New English Ballet Theatre allowed them to build confidence, discipline, and a deeper appreciation for the art form. Parents and teachers in attendance expressed pride in seeing the children represented in such a prestigious production.

The performances also held special meaning for Bahamian American dancer Nicholas Rose, who returned to Nassau to perform a leading role and work closely with local students. Alongside Cultural Ambassador and ballerina Courtney Celeste Fox, Rose helped strengthen ties between the visiting company and the Bahamian dance community through workshops and mentorship. The success of The Nutcracker performances has left many hopeful that similar collaborations will continue and that this production may become a new holiday tradition in The Bahamas.