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Tony Williams enjoyed an incredible career in dance. Becoming the first African-American principle dancer in the Boston Ballet paved a way of life for Tony that would sculpt his social vision forever. It was access to an arts education that provided that essential first spark when Tony was brought into the Boston Ballet fold in the 1960s to develop his undoubted talent.
Through Tony’s experiences, he had a vision of using a dance education model to unite diverse communities in Boston. He saw that gathering young people together to connect to artistic expression brought out qualities of empathy, mentorship and leadership. The art was the medium. To reflect this, Tony conceived of a reimagining of the Nutcracker. By making it a Boston story, and merging beautifully the classical dance form with dances representing other cultures, Tony brought us the Urban Nutcracker.
In 2001, the production debuted at the Strand Theatre in Dorchester.
For three performances, the show brought a new energy to the artscape in Boston. There was an excitement at such brave artistic adventure, produced by a tiny organization. It was a multicultural celebration that worked as a beautiful piece of art!
Through growth in the coming years, the Urban Nutcracker extended its run and moved from the Strand Theatre (during its period of renovation) and was hosted in the Wheelock Family Theatre and in the Back Bay Events Center, where it is today. The production now enjoys a run of 15 performances and Tony is never content to leave it at that.
Every inch gained means many miles of dreaming follows. Access remains crucial to the message of the Urban Nutcracker, which runs community discount programs and an autism-friendly performance. To the Urban Nutcracker, “access” is never a buzzword, it is serious business. And all the while, the critics rave.
In its 15th year, the Urban Nutcracker enjoys a makeover with new sets and costumes (costumes made in Boston!) to sustain the production for the medium term and to bring a vibrant holiday cheer to audiences.
The Urban Nutcracker will be performed through Dec. 31. All performances of the Urban Nutcracker will take place at John Hancock Hall. For tickets and more information, click HERE.
