Wednesday, December 6

[dirac]

Ballet teacher Jonathan Barton is cleared of sex charges.

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Mr Barton, of Oban, was found not guilty to one of the charges which claims he was in a "position of trust" when he engaged in sexual intercourse with a student.

The jury found Mr Barton not proven for the other sexual intercourse charge while in a position of trust against another girl.

Mr Barton was found not guilty of further charges of sexual assault against six other girls.

 

[dirac]

A preview of Grand Rapids Ballet's Nutcracker.

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Grand Rapids Ballet's production of "The Nutcracker" was reimagined in 2014 by Grand Rapids' own Chris Van Allsburg, the esteemed author of "The Polar Express.” The sets and story are brought to life by Tony Award-winning set designer Eugene Lee, whose artistry has graced renowned productions like "The Lion King" and "Wicked." Tchaikovsky's memorable score fills the theater as it's performed live by the Grand Rapids Symphony.

 

[dirac]

A preview of Ballet Arkansas' Nutcracker.

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The massive annual undertaking involves the company's 16 professional dancers and a community cast of 261 children (from 26 dance schools across the state) and adults. The Arkansas Symphony Orchestra and conductor Geoffrey Robson will be in the pit; the Bryant High School Bella Voce and Mount St. Mary Academy choirs intone a vocalise during the snow scene.

And the ballet company promises dazzling updates to choreography, costumes and backdrops, marking the first year's investment of its "Nutcracker Project" fundraising campaign.

 

[dirac]

Dancers of the National Ballet of Canada talk about performing in The Nutcracker.

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Genevieve Penn Nabity

What excites you most about your character?

The Sugar Plum Fairy is very ethereal, very regal. I really enjoy playing that part of this thing everybody loves. She’s almost perfect in a sense, and it’s something I strive for each show.