Review: The Story of the Nutcracker

Review: The Story of the Nutcracker | Miners Alley Performing Arts Center | Golden, CO | Curtain Up! | Eric Fitzgerald | December 4, 2025

At Miners Alley Performing Arts Center, The Story of the Nutcracker unfolds with a playful sparkle meant to delight younger audiences. Guided by the experienced children’s theatre expert Rory Pierce—who both wrote and directed the piece—the production strikes a balance between whimsy and clarity, along with familiar musical interludes, inviting families into a world where holiday magic feels reachable and engaging. With its approachable storytelling and Pierce’s talent for creating theatre that speaks directly to kids, the performance provides a festive introduction to a timeless story.

Like all Miners Alley Theatre for Young Audiences productions, The Story of the Nutcracker doesn’t just play out on stage; it invites its youngest viewers to step right into the action. Children are encouraged to join the performers as dancing dolls, and the performance incorporates a fun battle between good and evil, fought with oversized foam candy pieces. This interactive element, a signature of Rory Pierce’s style, makes the holiday story feel immediate and engaging for families.

On Christmas Eve, young Marie Stahlbaum (Sammie Piel) receives a mysterious gift from her eccentric godfather Drosselmeier (Damon Guerrasio)—a wooden Nutcracker. As the night deepens, Marie discovers that the toy comes to life, leading her into a fantastic battle against the fearsome Mouse King (Kate Poling). With the support of her cousin Fritzi (Kate Poling) and the steady presence of her mother, Mrs. Stahlbaum (Annie Dwyer), Marie witnesses the Nutcracker’s (Erik Thurston) bravery as he defends her and overcomes darkness. Their victory opens the door to a magical kingdom, where the radiant Sugar Plum Fairy (Annie Dwyer) welcomes them with dances and delights. Through courage, imagination, and friendship, Marie learns that the Nutcracker is more than a toy—he is a hero whose story bridges the ordinary and the enchanted.

The cast of The Story of the Nutcracker brings warmth and versatility to the holiday tale. Sammie Piel anchors the production with a wide-eyed sincerity as Marie Stahlbaum. At the same time, Damon Guerrasio lends eccentric charm to the role of Drosselmeier, the godfather who sets the magic in motion. Kate Poling impressively plays both the fearsome Mouse King and Marie’s cousin Fritzi, showcasing her range. Poling might be the hardest-working actress in Colorado right now, also appearing in a holiday production at the Aurora Fox. Annie Dwyer also switches easily, embodying both the steady maternal presence of Mrs. Stahlbaum and the radiant delight of the Sugar Plum Fairy. Completing the ensemble, Erik Thurston gives the Nutcracker a heroic presence, carrying Marie and the audience into the enchanted kingdom with conviction.

Rory Pierce’s direction brings both clarity and playfulness to The Story of the Nutcracker, shaping the production with a keen sense of what engages young audiences. He not only guides the performers with a light, accessible touch but also enriches the atmosphere by weaving selections from Tchaikovsky’s original score, whose music has defined the ballet for more than a century. Pierce’s choice to incorporate these familiar strains—whether in moments of battle or celebration—anchors the show in tradition while keeping the storytelling lively and immediate for families.

The visual and technical design at Miners Alley Performing Arts Center enriches The Story of the Nutcracker. Scenic design and projections by Jonathan Scott‑McKean craft a festive backdrop that smoothly transitions between the Stahlbaum home and the magical kingdom. Meanwhile, Xander Claypool’s lighting highlights both the cozy warmth of family scenes and the sparkle of fantasy. Crystal McKenzie’s costumes stand out, adding vibrant color and clear character distinctions for each role, from the regal Sugar Plum Fairy to the fierce Mouse King. Sound design by John Hauser complements the action with clarity and mood, while the imaginative props by Sammie Piel—including oversized foam candies for the children’s battles—introduce fun interactivity that keeps young viewers captivated.

Under the guidance of Rory Pierce, who both wrote and directed the production, The Story of the Nutcracker shines as a festive offering shaped by the energy and versatility of its ensemble cast. Together, they bring holiday magic to life for families and young audiences alike.

The production continues at Miners Alley Performing Arts Center in Golden through December 27, inviting audiences to step into a world of imagination, courage, and delight.

For information and tickets: https://minersalley.com/shows/the-story-of-the-nutcracker-2025/