Going to see a Nutcracker performance during December is a cherished tradition for many.
Every year in Albuquerque, for two weeks in December, the Ballet Repertory Theater (BRT) showcases a classic Christmas story at the historical KiMo Theater. Beginning rehearsals in September, their dancers have been rehearsing tediously for months now, and let’s just say, their work paid off. With seven shows during the 2025 season, BRT is halfway through with their showtimes. With only 3 remaining performances (Dec 20- 2pm & 6pm, Dec 21- 1pm), you better snag a ticket before it’s too late!
I mentioned earlier how coming to see the show is a beloved tradition of many, but the dancers also have traditions of their own that they practice before performances.
In the late 1950s, Bobby Darnall, a 10-year-old boy, died from a boiler explosion in the KiMo theater. Nowadays, the performers honor him by placing a special trinket on his shrine, located on the west end of the KiMo. This could be a shoe used in the show, a toy, or even a special Christmas card! This superstition has been around for ages, as it has been known for some supernaturally horrible events to occur if the resident spirit is left giftless. This year in particular, my dressing room signed a ballet shoe key charm to put in the shrine.
Another tradition the performers have is exchanging a “Merde” for good luck before they go onstage. Despite the word’s not-so-sweet origins, the performers continue to use it for a little extra confidence while performing. To ensure the luck sticks, there’s also a hand gesture. You hook pinkies, as if you are going in for a pinky promise, but then you press your thumbs together and make a kiss noise. I know it can seem a bit odd, but it’s tradition, and if you have front row seats, you may even hear us whispering this in the wings.
If you want a souvenir to remember your time at the show, swing by BRT’s Guild gift shop. It has designed a collection of decorative pointe shoes. You can view them all on the website, but this year’s set is extra special, as the dancers sign each individual shoe. Love our characters? There’s a meet and greet post-showtime on the closing performance (Dec 21), as well as the Children’s Series showtime (where you can take pictures and get autographs from your favorite performers.
Make sure to go see the Nutcracker before the show ends!
