By VICKIE CORNELIUS PHIPPS
A Seat on the Aisle
Simply delightful!
Gregory Hancock Dance Theatre’s Winterfest is a holiday dance program in Carmel that celebrates global winter traditions with professional dancers and students from the Academy of GHDT. It’s staged at The Florence, a black-box theater, and offers audiences an alternative to the many Nutcracker productions.
With global focus, the program highlights holidays from around the world, including Saint Nicholas Day, Kwanzaa, Diwali, Santa Lucia Day, Las Posadas, Winter Solstice, Hanukkah, and Christmas. Instead of focusing on one tradition, Winterfest embraces many – weaving together diverse music, dance, and storytelling.
Photo by Can Toksoy
If you’re looking for a unique alternative, Gregory Hancock created Winterfest in 2024 to give audiences something fresh compared to the saturated Nutcracker market. Performers feature both professional GHDT dancers and students from the Academy of GHDT, blending artistry with community participation, making it both a showcase of talent and a celebration of learning. Florence’s black-box theater creates a close, immersive experience giving the audience the intimacy of being up close to the performers. Topped off with cookies and hot chocolate, Winterfest is a wonderful start to the Christmas Holidays to share with family and friends.
The Florence is located inside the Academy of GHDT at 329 Gradle Drive, Carmel. Performances run Dec 12 to 14. Times vary depending on date. Winterfest tickets can be purchased by calling (800) 515-2171 or online at gregoryhandcockdancetheatre.org.
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