nutcracker memories from a graduating senior

Each year we have another graduating senior perform their last Nutcracker with the Academy family. This year we asked that senior to tell us about everything their Nutcracker experience has meant to them over the years.

 Name:  Jess Riniti         Age:  17How many years have your performed in the Nutcracker?  12 yearsWhat was you favorite part to perform and why?  The year I was Clara when I was a freshman was my favorite because I got to act, I could watch everyone else, and it was relatively stress free. What was your favorite year to perform and why?  My favorite year was the year I was a flower, snow, pirouette, and lead chinese. It was a challenge to perform all of them in one year, but I enjoyed bring a new character to life every time I was on stage.What will you miss most about performing in the Academy Nutcracker?  I love the traditions, the backstage ambiance. I also love that it's one big story and we're all working together to tell it. It feels like a team effort even though we all have our individual parts. I will miss that and the family we form because of it. Do you have any advice for young dancers interested in performing in the Nutcracker?  Do it! It's a tradition and it's the thing I look forward to most in the holiday season. Looking up to the older dancers and then becoming one is so rewarding. And don't get discouraged! The audience loves every part and every part is a good one. They're ALL an important part of the story. Every audience member has his or her favorite, you never know who's out their just waiting for you! And every part is what you make of it!