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Nutcracker The Play - Director's Note


“I am more and more convinced that our happiness or unhappiness depends far more on the way we meet the events of life, than on the nature of those events themselves”
- Wilhelm von Humboldt

The Nutcracker is a magical story that will give even the Grinch a scoop of Christmas Spirit. What I love with the story is how it portrays how we can change our lives by taking charge of the situation we are in. By guiding the people around us to a more inviting, forgiving and caring environment, we can melt even the coldest hearts. We have been exploring the story using physical theatre, mask work, devising and objectives in order to give it as many dimensions as possible.


Being a part of Nutcracker the Play has been a wonderful, meaningful and interesting journey. My main focus has been on the development of the characters throughout the play. When Keon wrote the play, we talked about how we can keep the magic of Christmas and at the same time tell an important story. With help from the toys, there’s a clear shift in all characters on stage from the beginning of the story to the end and I would like to think it’s a journey we all do at some point in our lives. Every single member of the cast have been throwing themselves head first into the story with their whole heart and it has been incredible to see how friendships have been created throughout the process.




I could never have done this if it wasn’t for all the help I received from inspiring, hard-working and talented people around me. Firstly, I would like to give the biggest thank you to all the talented actors for trusting my crazy ideas and directions. I am so proud to see how everyone has grown as actors and as people. Thank you to Keon, who not only wrote the script but also offered wisdom, guidance and ideas thoughout the rehearsing process. Thank you to Sarah, who is always willing to take care of any obstacles that come in our way in order to give me space to be creative. Jaime, thank you for giving all your time and imagination to this production. The props and costumes are flawless, and it’s all because of you. Erika, thank you for always being there to give feedback and to give the actors the confidence and guidance they need. Isabella, without you the show wouldn’t happen. Your positive outlook has inspired us all. Jo, you have been an incredible Assistant Producer and it’s always a privilege to work with you. And special thank you to Jonquil, Matt and Clara for all ideas and care you have offered.  





The theatre is such a magical place. We create a moment, a story, a happening and we share this with people who are curious and willing to listen – the audience. Once the moment is over, it will relive in our memories. I know that we have created something magical for both audience and cast member to relive over and over again in the years to come. At least I know I will.


Best Wishes,

Ronja Wahlstrom
Director, Nutcracker The Play

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