The prestigious Royal City Youth Ballet is presenting its 27th season of the Nutcracker at the ACT on Sunday, Dec. 6, and a local talent will be on the stage.
Frances Healy is a Grade 7 student at Meadowridge and the 12-year-old and has been dancing since she was four.
She currently dances five days a week training in ballet, jazz, tap, lyrical and musical theatre, and has become a student teacher.
This will be her fifth year with the Royal City Youth Ballet, where her roles have included Page, Party Girl, Soldier, Little Arabian, Angel and Little Trepak.
This year, her roles include Drosselmeyer’s Niece, Party Girl, Calvary, Angel and Trepak.
Frances enjoys the camaraderie of her fellow dancers during the long hours of rehearsal in the months leading up to the shows.
The Nutcracker is a family affair for the Healys, with Frances’ mom and dad both working backstage.
In between dancing Frances also enjoys being a Pathfinder with Girl Guides of Canada and is currently working towards her Canada Cord.
Frances said she hopes local audiences will enjoy this year’s Nutcracker. A tradition for many families, the show is for all ages, known for its beautiful sets and extravagant costumes that illuminate the magic of the toy soldiers, Sugar Plum Fairy and a growing Christmas Tree.
She and the rest of the cast of talented, dedicated and enthusiastic young dancers travel all over the province to perform this holiday classic.