It’s different from anything you’ve ever seen and it’s coming to Habersham Central Auditorium on December 9. Based on Hans Christian Andersen’s many books, Clarkesville School of Dance will be performing Christmas with Hans Christian Anderson. The ballet’s originator, Pittman Corry of the Corry Foundation, gave exclusive rights to the Southern Ballet of Atlanta, and upon his passing, Coby Grossbart Richardson, owner of Druitt Hills Dance Center and Vista Grove Center in Decatur continued the production for 20 years before passing the baton to Francie Keene, owner of Clarkesville School of Dance. Keene intends to keep the amazing production going. Original choreographers were Pittman Corry, Ginger Prince Hall, and Coby Grossbart.
Books come to life
Andersen’s books come to life as performed by the School of Dance’s Company dancers. Books such as The Little Mermaid, The Little Match Girl, The Red Shoes, and Chimney Sweep are just some of the classics that will be captured on stage. The lights, costumes, and music weave the words of Andersen into the hearts of the audience. It is a state-of-the-art performance and it’s here in Habersham County.
Something never seen before
“Everybody can do The Nutcracker,” Keene responded to the opportunity she has been given to perform this ballet, “But we are bringing something no one has seen before. I have no doubt everyone will leave smiling and filled with the Christmas spirit.”
Guest performer Noah Richardson, from Orlando, will dance the part of Hans.
“As the show grows, we will add more performances,” Keene said of the December 9 production. “As of now, we will perform Acts I and III, with Act II to be for the Summer of 2024.”
No stranger to dance
Keene is no stranger to the dance world. At the age of 8 years old, Keene began with roles in The King & I with Yul Brenner, South Pacific, and Fiddler on the Roof. She danced at the Crystal Pistol at Six Flags over Georgia and performed in Spellbound in Los Angeles, Tahoe, and Atlantic City. Keene worked for Disney World and was a part of the original cast of Beauty and the Beast among other shows. On Broadway, she danced in Will Rogers Follies and was a part of the first National Tour. Throughout her career, Keene has enjoyed working with such artists as Michael Crawford, Tommy Tune, Mac Davis, and Gregory Hines. She also had the opportunity to perform for President Bill Clinton and the First Lady.
Her litany of shows is impressive, but it is her character that draws people to her.
Come and enjoy
Christmas with Hans Christian Andersen, December 9, 7:30 p.m. Doors to open at 7:00 p.m. at the Habersham Central Auditorium. It will be a cultural extravaganza for the entire family and something you do not want to miss. Tickets are available online at ClarkesvilleSchoolofDance.
