West Potomac Academy and ArtSpireVa are teaming up to present their joint performance of The Nutcracker, the traditional holiday story with a modern twist November 30 -December 3, 2022, in the West Potomac High School, Springbank Auditorium. Five shows will be presented: Wednesday, November 30 (scout performance), Thursday, December 1, at 5:30 p.m., Friday, December 2, at 6:30 p.m., and Saturday, December 3 at 2:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m.  The performance will include ballet, pointe, tap, jazz, lyrical, modern, and hip-hop and gymnastics.

West Potomac Academy’s Dance students will be participating in the entire production both on stage and behind the scenes. Advanced Dance students will have featured performances.  Select Level 2-3 Dance Students are completing Externships with the Annual Nutcracker Performance sponsored by FCPS Ignite Business Partner, ArtSpire, VA.  Students are not only performers but are assisting with the production process backstage, marketing and promotions, and taking on leadership roles within the cast. 

West Potomac Orchestra, ArtspireVA and The West Potomac Academy have teamed up for a world premiere event! Christmas With the Nutcracker, commissioned by retired FCPS Teacher/Composer Katie O’Hara LaBrie, premiered November 30th right here at West Potomac High School. ArtspireVA sponsors the Alexandria Community Nutcracker each year. As part of the grand finale, Clara wakes from her incredible dreamland to the original music which will be played by the West Potomac Orchestra, alongside original choreography by Mrs. Courtney Betzel of West Potomac’s Academy Dance Program.

More than 100 dancers from the Alexandria area of Fairfax County auditioned for the performance. Students from the following Fairfax County public schools are represented in the production: Belle View Elementary School, Fort Hunt Elementary School, Hollin Meadows Elementary School, Stratford Landing Elementary School, Washington Mill Elementary School, Waynewood Elementary School, Sandburg Middle School, and West Potomac High School. Performers range in age from four years old to adult.

ArtSpireVA Dance is an FCPS Ignite Business Partner with West Potomac Academy.

Tickets can be purchased in for $15 in advance or $18 at the door.  For more information or to purchase tickets go to www.Artspireva.com