The homeschooled cast members of The Nutcracker played "hooky" two days straight. Well, they did go to school. It was a preschool, so I am certain that counts as an educational day. Right?! HA!Our group was invited to do a presentation of dances from the ballet for three, four, and five-year-olds. Liesey read aloud to the children, and with this being her 2nd and 3rd times doing so, she just about has the story memorized. It was sweet to watch the young children stare in wonder at the bright costumes. Thursday and Friday's "events" went relatively well -- okay, so we did have one or two little things go wrong. Oh, well!!! Each time we do this kind of public appearance, we learn a little more of what works and what doesn't. It's all good. See, that's where the "educational" value comes into play.
I am not sure who had more fun -- the little children, or the big kid dancers! We have decided that even big kids never grow up too much to not want to play dress-up.
Millie loves her beautiful costume. This dress was originally made for Liesey three years ago. No one has worn it since then, so Millie is thrilled that she gets to wear her big sister's dress.
What a couple of "dolls!"
Several children at the preschool (and their parents) told the dancers that they wanted to come to see the full show, so I guess we accomplished our mission of spreading some Christmas cheer, and generating a few additional ticket sales. Our "crew" represented PTB beautifully. It's amazing that these "inadequately socialized" homeschoolers even know how to behave in public, let alone perform on a stage for an audience. Hmmmmm... (I know, I know, I shouldn't be sarcastic, but I just couldn't help myself.)We have one more publicity event tomorrow afternoon, and a very full weekend of rehearsals, so it is going to be a busy couple o' days. The opening performance is only a week away! You know what that means -- right? I'll be taking and sharing more pictures of the Smithlings and Mr. Smith. (You have been forewarned.)
