Local Dancers Join Nutcracker at Purchase College

by Talia Mandell

(November 15, 2006) When I first decided to participate in the performance of The Nutcracker last year, I was quite nervous. As we began rehearsals, I was worried that I wouldn’t do well in front of so many people. At first, I wondered if perhaps I had made a big mistake agreeing to join such a big production. But, after a while, I got over these feelings and developed confidence with the help of the wonderful people at Purchase College.

This year, I am excited to participate once again in the performance of The Nutcracker. I am especially happy that my sister Georgia is joining the performance. Georgia plays a “meese” and her favorite part of the performance is crawling around on the floor. I am really happy that she is with me this year and I hope that she enjoys performing as much as I do.

The Nutcracker was my very first experience with public dance performance. My success at Purchase College has led me to further develop my interest in dance. I have enrolled in after-school dance classes and have recently become very interested in hip-hop and other forms of dancing. I am sure that I will be able to use the skills I learned at Purchase College for many years to come.

Local children will be joining the Purchase College Nutcracker 06: Row 1 (l-r): Camille Butterfield, Mamaroneck, Georgia Mandell, Larchmont; Row 2: Jagger Clark, Irvington, Talia Mandell, Larchmont, Annie Corrao, Thornwood and Joseph Corrao, Thornwood. Other Larchmont dancers include Sasha and Jordan Reist and Gabrielle Giacomo (not shown).

Now that I’ve learned so much about dancing and gained confidence in my abilities I feel like I can do anything. It’s good to know that so many people come to see you, just you. I love being in The Nutcracker performance. It makes me feel proud and strong!

I hope that everyone in the audience enjoys the show.

Talia Mandell is 8 ½ and is dancing the part of an angel.

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