'The Magic of the Nutcracker' set for Libertyville's Dancenter North

Libertyville's Dancenter North will present "The Magic of the Nutcracker" beginning this weekend. Cheri Lindell, the show's director and producer, tells us what you need to know.

Q. Briefly, tell us the story behind the performance.

A. Every year, "Nutcracker" features more than 100 performers and it is the longest running production in Lake County! We have always performed at Libertyville High School, and for the past several seasons our second weekend of performances has been at the beautiful Genesee Theatre in Waukegan as well.

Tell us what you know about the history of "The Nutcracker."

A. "Nutcracker" was first performed in Russia in 1892. It had its American debut in 1944 at the San Francisco Ballet, and after George Balanchine staged it in 1954 for the New York City Ballet, it became a yearly holiday tradition at companies across the United States. Dancenter North is celebrating its 21st year!

What's the appeal of doing "The Nutcracker" from your point of view?

A. We have hundreds of audience members that make "Nutcracker" a tradition, yet we find new ways to keep the production new and exciting for them.

The talent in our production is also second to none. All our cast and crew act like a big family and work together so well! They put absolutely everything into what they do, and it shows.

What makes your production fabulous? How is it different from other productions?

A. In addition to being the most lavish "Nutcracker" in the area, our production features the best in local dance talent as well as professional guest artists, from companies such as the Suzanne Farrell Ballet and LehrerDance. It is such a tremendous experience for our student dancers to be featured with these artists. Our crew is also among the most dedicated you'll meet. They are all volunteers, and many have been with us for many, many seasons! They spend hours building and sewing, and the end result is an elaborate show that continues to thrill the audience from the second the curtain goes up.

Without giving too much away, is there a "don't miss" moment, and when does it come?

A. Our first act's "doll scene" features some amazing (and very fun!) new choreography from Jon Lehrer this year and we are very excited about it. Jon never fails to delight the audience as "Mouse King" and we know he'll do the same when he does double duty this season as guest choreographer!