The Shell Shocked Nut 2014
Conceived and directed by: Martha Tornay (Artistic Director, East Village Dance Project)
Co-director: Victoria Roberts-Wierzbowski (East Village Dance Project)
Presented in association with GOH Productions
Returning to La MaMa for its second year, THE SHELL-SHOCKED NUT upends the classic structure of E.T. Hoffman’s Nutcracker, relocates it in the East Village, and uses a cast of lively characters to explore themes of loss and recovery. A war veteran and a wandering child take us on a journey through the iconic and the everyday of the East Village – stopping at Tompkins Square Park, Economy Candy Store, the aisles of a corner bodega, the interior of a East Village home, and much more.
Performed by a dynamic cast of 25 students, ages 5-17, from the East Village Dance Project and 25 professional performers and East Village luminaries, the soundtrack features both pieces from the original Tchaikovsky score as well as tracks from Stevie Wonder, Rebirth Brass Band, Duke Ellington and originally composed music, performed live.
Choreographers: Martha Tornay, Victoria Roberts-Wierzbowski, Andy de Groat, (1978 work set by Catherine Galasso)
Brian Glover, Dante Brown, Hilary McDaniel-Douglas, Teddy (Boonyarith Pankamdech), Rachel Kramer
Performed by: 25 youth performers (age 5-17) from East Village Dance Project, and 25 professional dancers and performers including a host of East Village luminaries and guests.
Guest performers/artists include (as of November 1, 2014): Alice Klugherz, Amikole, Billy Blanken, Calla Cumi Jo, Dante Brown|Warehouse Dance, John Gutierrez, Justin Hicks, Patrick Leader, Peter Jones, Project in Motion, Rachel Kramer, Ryan Carroll, Shar La Porte, Angel Flores, Lauren Mendoza, Inam Jiemvitayanukoon, Melanie Gallo, Iman Barnes, Gwendolyn Baum, Jen Roit, Lauren Evans, Ann Duffy, Kiki Williams
Music by: Tchaikovsky, Clare Farris, Peter Jones, Duke Ellington, Stevie Wonder, David Lowery