Help a child enjoy BAC's 'Peanutcracker'

The Brewery Arts Center will be kicking off the holiday season with a show on Saturday, and will once again help raise money to sponsor needy local children.

Saturday at 2 and 7 p.m., adults and children alike can immerse themselves in the sights and sounds of the "Peanutcracker: The Story in a Nutshell," co-presented by the BAC and the Sierra Nevada Ballet and through a donation by the Carson City Redevelopment Authority.

After 25 years of professionally performing as the Sugar Plum Fairy in "The Nutcracker" ballet, Rosine Bena learned that "The Nutcracker" was often children's first introduction to ballet, yet many of them found the full two-hour ballet too long and difficult to follow.

That led her to conceive, write, choreograph and perform "Peanutcracker: The Story in a Nutshell" in San Francisco in 1993, a twist on the classic Christmas favorite ballet that thoroughly entertains children as young as 3 years old, and is now critically acclaimed.

In an effort to expose as many children in the area as possible to the arts, the BAC is asking individuals in the community to sponsor children's attendance to the performance.

"For only $5 per child, people can bring the wonderful world of the holidays, the arts and captivating music and performance to a child who otherwise would not be able to attend," said John Procaccini, executive director of the Brewery Arts Center. "We ask folks to open their hearts, and their pocketbooks, this holiday season and spread the cheer to as many kids as possible. Fifty dollars covers the admission of 10 children."

Chris Willson at the Brewery added that if any needy kid needs a ticket, "just call the Brewery and we'll take care of you."

Last year, the community sponsored more than 300 children. The BAC's goal is to surpass that number this year.

All proceeds help cover the costs of the performances and the BAC donates all tickets to the local nonprofit organizations that work with underprivileged children.

Performances of "Peanutcracker" will take place at the Carson City Community Center, Bob Boldrick Theater, 851 E William St. Tickets are $10 general admission and $5 for students/seniors/BAC members.

For tickets or to sponsor a local child's attendance at "Peanutcracker," contact the Brewery Arts Center at 883-1976 or visit www.breweryarts.org.