Bossov’s ‘Nutcracker’ charms Performers in classic holiday ballet move with panache

BANGOR – Andrei Bossov’s adaptation of “The Nutcracker” this weekend was just right – sweet, spicy and altogether charming.

The cast of more than 50 performers from the Bossov Ballet Theatre in Pittsfield did a gallant job of keeping the large production together on the small stage at John Bapst Memorial High School auditorium, a hall where many patrons chose to view the ballet from the balcony.

Meli Bethune was delightful as Marie – known as Clara in most productions of the ballet. Anna Marie Cowan was to do the evening show.

Marie embraced the joy of Christmas, waiting for her gift from Calder Taylor as Drosselmeyer. No cuddly dolly for Marie, but a full-sized Nutcracker whose leaping and cavorting couldn’t overcome the fearful giant head he carried. The children looked away.

But Marie makes friends with the Nutcracker, who does the same with the other children by cracking nuts for them. Drosselmeyer chases a large mouse, paving the way for Marie’s father to turn into the Mouse King – played in fine form by Andrei Bossov.

Alas, the Mouse King loses a battle with the Nutcracker, who proceeds with Marie to the magical kingdom of sweets. Here are all the familiar dances, from the Russian dance to the “Waltz of the Flowers.”

Taylor of Enfield as King Cake (Michael Dunsmore in the evening show) and Stacy O’Donal as Queen Sugar Plum (Ann Duran in the evening) perform the “Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy” with panache.

Taylor and O’Donal were definitely highlights of the show, strong and elegant. Don’t take my word for it. Eleven-year-old Tess McLaughlin of Brewer, an athlete and dancer, gave the pair her total approval from her seat in the third row.

Very fine were deBethune as Marie and Zeben Ashton as the Nutcracker, handling the roles with maturity. DeBethune’s pointe work and graceful arms were perfect for Marie. The Arabian dancers were mesmerizing, the angels and candy canes too cute for words and the good moments too many to mention.

Adrian Silver was splendid paired with Kate Zarolinsky as the Russian dancers. And Stephanie Pouzol of Holden had a strong presence onstage as the porcelain doll Markitanka, dancing nicely with Taylor’s Drosselmeyer.

All cast members were wonderfully costumed.

Here’s hoping Andre Bossov and Michael Wylie will bring the Bossov Ballet back to Bangor for a full season next year, as they plan to. Four shows are scheduled for the Bangor Opera House: “Cinderella,” March 27; “Scheherazade,” May 22; “Esmeralda,” July 24; and “The Nutcracker,” Nov. 27. In addition, Bossov will perform “The Nutcracker” Dec. 12-14 in Waterville.

Roxanne Moore Saucier edits the Bangor Daily News’ Weekly newspaper. For “The Nutcracker,” season tickets with reserved seating are $58 adults, $50 for youths and seniors 62 and over. For information, contact the Bossov Ballet Theater, 125 South Main St., Pittsfield 04967; or 487-6360; or www.bossovballet.com.