Episode 23 : The Magic of the Nutcracker

Send us Fan MailIn this special holiday episode, we sit down with Brent McNulty and Annika Wooten of Ballet Wichita to explore the magic, tradition, and behind-the-scenes wonder of their beloved annual production of The Nutcracker  presented by Casper Family Foundation — running December 19–21 at Century II.We dive into everything from: 🎄 Why The Nutcracker is a timeless holiday tradition 🎻 The power of Wichita’s live orchestra 🩰 What 120+ dancers (ages 5–75!) bring to the stage 🎭 Last-minute pivots, costume miracles, and backstage chaos 🌟 How ballet creates community, belonging, and unforgettable memoriesPlus: inside details on upcoming productions, the story behind Annika’s growing-stage tears, Brent’s leadership magic, and Wichita’s need for ongoing arts support.Use BW10 for 10% off Nutcracker tickets at balletwichita.com.  Cheers to holiday magic — we’ll see you at the ballet!Notable ShoutoutsBallet Wichita Academy — where dancers of all ages (yes, even adults!) can train in ballet, tap, jazz, and more. Find them on Instagram at @balletwichita and @balletwichitaacademyLogan Pachciarz, Artistic Director & choreographer with deep industry connectionsKatie Cohn, Company Director supporting dancer safety and artistic excellenceJan, Ballet Wichita’s powerhouse costume creatorMcPherson Opera House, home of the beautifully slanted 26-degree stageCentury II Performing Arts Center, the beloved home of The NutcrackerOliver’s — hosting Ballet Wichita’s glamorous Opening Night After PartyDouglas Event Solutions / Douglas Production Group — Brent’s day job and the reason the studio we recorded in looks iconic. Find them on Instagram at @wichitaeventrentals Jesse Wooten, official hype husband and honorary So THIS Happened family memberNathan, Jen’s son and theater kid who proves student matinees spark lifelong creativityAll Wichita arts supporters who show up, cheer loudly, and believe in the magicSupport the show