Magic, Hard Work, and Holiday Cheer: NEAD’s Nutcracker Photos are Here!

It’s that time of year again—The Nutcracker is back! The dancers at the New England Academy of Dance in New Canaan have been working so hard for months to bring this magical holiday tradition to life. From the tiniest snowflakes to the graceful Sugar Plum Fairy, every dancer has poured their heart into rehearsals, perfecting each step and movement.

Watching them grow over the season has been incredible. The hours of practice, the determination, and the pure joy they bring to the stage are nothing short of inspiring. Seeing the little ones light up as they nail their parts for the first time or watching the older dancers step confidently into challenging roles is a reminder of how special this experience is—not just for them but for everyone who gets to witness it.

As the event photographer, I feel incredibly lucky to capture these moments. Seeing the kids’ hard work shine through the lens and being able to freeze those magical memories is such a gift. From behind the camera, I get a front-row seat to their talent and passion, and it’s truly amazing to watch their stories unfold on stage.

NEAD’s Nutcracker. It’s more than a performance—it’s a celebration of the holiday season, the arts, and the kind of dedication that reminds us all what’s possible with a little heart and a lot of hard work. Bravo to these incredible dancers, Ginna, Francis, Ted and every parent who makes the magic happen

Click on the dancer to see the photos