Words by Jenny Lynn Davis | Images by Al Blanton
Athletic Arts Center is returning to the stage for its 16th production of the timeless holiday classic, The Nutcracker.
This year’s performances will take place on Saturday, November 16, at 7 p.m. and Sunday, November 17, at 2 p.m., both at Jasper High School’s Pam Brown Theatre.
Eventgoers may purchase tickets for The Nutcracker online at athleticartsctr.com/performances. The cost is $18 for adults and $15 for students, children, and seniors (55+).
In addition to the performances, the Land of the Sweets Tea Party will be held on Sunday, November 3, 2024, from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. at Musgrove Country Club.
Guests will enjoy tea and sweets while getting their picture made with the cast of The Nutcracker. Mother Ginger will also be there to tell the story of The Nutcracker, with excerpts from the ballet performed by Athletic Arts Center dancers. Tickets for the tea party are $30 and can be purchased online at athleticartsctr.com/performances.
The Land of the Sweets Tea Party is held in memory of Sonya Webb, a longtime Athletic Arts Center instructor and champion of performing arts. Proceeds from the event will benefit the Sonya Violett Webb Memorial Fund through the Walker Area Community Foundation.
Athletic Arts Center owner Maria Ross said the following in an announcement for the tea party:
“When talking about the performing arts in our community, I can’t help but think of my dear friend Sonya Violett Webb. She was more than an incredible actress. She was a teacher and mentor to so many. This was evident in her work as a performer, teacher, and director. As a young girl, Sonya had the opportunity to perform the role of Clara in The Nutcracker, and she was a passionate supporter of Athletic Arts Center’s annual production. Sonya’s love for the arts was contagious. Throughout her life, she was active in various theatrical productions and events, leaving a lasting impact on Athletic Arts Center, Walker County Arts Alliance, and the Foothills Festival, not to mention the countless students and families she coached and mentored. Her family strives to continue her legacy by creating the Sonya Violett Webb Fund at the Walker Area Community Foundation. I hope you will join me in giving to a fund that will forever support community arts programming and art education for future generations. Through the impact this fund will make, Sonya’s legacy will remain an integral part of the arts community in Walker County.”
Since its inception, Athletic Arts Center has been dedicated to promoting the arts in our community. The annual production of The Nutcracker has become a cherished tradition, showcasing the talent and dedication of Athletic Arts Center’s performers. These events offer families, friends, and the entire community a fantastic opportunity to come together and celebrate the holiday season.
For questions concerning The Nutcracker or The Land of the Sweets Tea Party, contact Maria at 205-387-9337.
For updates regarding The Nutcracker and other upcoming events, follow Athletic Arts Center on Facebook. WL