November 27, 2024
By: Dilara Isik

Introdans Presents Its Most Ambitious Production Yet
This winter, Introdans is staging the largest production the company has ever undertaken. Choreographer Jeroen Verbruggen has reimagined the classic The Nutcracker in a completely new light. The result promises to be a spectacular show filled with dance, music, and stunning visuals for the entire family to enjoy.

This version of The Nutcracker skips the Christmas tree, Sugar Plum Fairy, and presents. Instead, it delivers an enchanting performance brimming with magic and vibrant dance. Jeroen Verbruggen has given the traditional tale his own unique twist. Here, the protagonist, Marie, embarks on a journey of self-discovery, learning that she must love herself before she can truly love someone else.

A Classic Reimagined
Dancer Nienke Wind (33) is one of the performers taking on the lead role of Marie. This marks her thirteenth season with Introdans. After performing in classics such as Death and the Maiden and a modern Swan Lake, this is her first time appearing in The Nutcracker.

“This is the third winter season where we perform a modern adaptation of a well-known classic for the whole family,” Nienke shares. “What I find wonderful about this production is that it’s very narrative-driven, rather than consisting of separate pieces. That’s so fun to perform. Plus, our costumes are absolutely gorgeous.”

A Positive Vibe
This production is also Nienke’s first experience working with Jeroen Verbruggen. “We always have smiles on our faces when we work with him. During the casting process, I noticed his style is both technical and free, which I find so beautiful. Jeroen is also very funny and outgoing. He pushes us to work hard, but never in an intimidating way. Everything stays lighthearted. Our group of dancers gets along so well, and that creates a wonderful atmosphere in the team!”

For the Whole Family
It might not be your first expectation, but this performance is something the entire family can enjoy. That’s not just because of the story. Nienke explains, “There’s so much to see. The story is, of course, fantastic, but the extraordinary costumes and the stunning, elaborate set design will also captivate you. There’s a bit of a dark edge to it. The high-fashion costumes were designed by famous French designers who have dressed stars like Beyoncé and Lady Gaga. And, of course, the well-known music of The Nutcracker is included—everyone can hum along to Tchaikovsky. Everything has a modern twist, including the choreography, making it enjoyable for both young and old.”

Cracking Your Own Nut
In the original story, the protagonist, a young girl named Clara, receives a nutcracker doll that comes to life. He transforms into a handsome prince and takes the young girl to his magical world. In Introdans’ version of The Nutcracker, the focus is more on the protagonist herself. “The story in our production is slightly different. The protagonist isn’t called Clara but Marie, and her age is left ambiguous. Marie isn’t happy with what she sees in the mirror at first. She has to learn to love herself—to crack her own nut,” Nienke says with a laugh. In the performance, there’s a play on what is real and what isn’t. Mirrors and reflections appear repeatedly, along with a magical cabinet that hides a wondrous world.

An Enchanting Evening
Narrative ballet is a great entry point if you’re new to ballet performances, Nienke explains. “The story provides a clear framework, making it less abstract. It has everything—romance, unique movements, stunning costumes, and beautiful yet familiar music. The full-length performance will transport you, allowing you to forget everything else for a while. It’s an extraordinary spectacle on stage that the whole family can enjoy.”

Nutcracker Experium
Even before the show and during intermission, there’s plenty to experience. The foyer hosts an interactive Experium. Touch the costumes, snap an Insta-worthy selfie in a (digital) costume, dance on a dance mat, and more! During the intermission, you can learn a short choreography, and after the show, there’s even a Meet & Greet with some of the dancers!

Read the full article here. (Dutch only)