On December 20-22, 2024, as a member of Festival Ballet Albuquerque (FBA), sophomore Elizabeth B. danced the night away–and a couple of afternoons as well–in the production of Nutcracker in the Land of Enchantment at the National Hispanic Cultural Center. Joining her for several of the performances was Bosque School’s Performing Arts Department Leader Nicolle Maniaci, who played first violin in the FBA orchestra. Elizabeth, one of FBA’s pre-professional dancers since 2018, started studying ballet at age four at the National Dance Institute and is now a company member at Dance Theatre Southwest. She also participates in Regional Dance America, which is a national dance program that allows dancers from all over the country to take classes from renowned teachers and perform for all the different companies. Elizabeth also takes seven-week summer intensive courses, the most recent in Chicago, with teachers trained by the legendary George Balanchine, and even teaches some beginning dance classes to younger students.
Her roles in this season’s FBA Nutcracker included being one of Maria’s friends in the Christmas party scene, a rat in the battle scene, a pointe angel and a character representing Dia De Los Muertos in the Sugar Plum Fairy scene, and finally, in the corps de ballet in the Waltz of the Flowers. It was an exhilarating production, with many changes of roles and costumes, and the music, set, and choreography stayed true to the classic ballet by Tchaikovsky while incorporating the unique culture and natural beauty of New Mexico. Elizabeth balances a very demanding dance class and rehearsal schedule with being an excellent student. But she believes it’s worth it, as she describes her passion for dance: “I love the amount of expression I can get out of it. The feeling on stage is like no other—the nerves, the excitement, the adrenaline, the thought of being proud of yourself for getting that far. Dancing in general, for me, brings a sense of calm and serenity.” Keep dancing, Elizabeth! We are proud to have you in the Bosque School community.