Words by Jenny Lynn Davis | Images by Jenny Lynn Davis and Al Blanton
Athletic Arts Center is returning to the stage for its 17th production of the timeless holiday classic, The Nutcracker. This year’s performances will take place on Saturday, November 15, at 7 p.m., and Sunday, November 16, at 2 p.m., both held at Jasper High School’s Pam Brown Theatre.
Among this year’s cast are two familiar faces, siblings Olivia and Luke Brasher, who will share the stage in milestone roles. Eight-year-old Olivia will dance the lead role of Clara, while nine-year-old Luke will take on the title role of The Nutcracker. For the close-knit pair, performing together in such significant parts makes this year especially meaningful.
Olivia remembers exactly how she felt when she learned she’d been cast as Clara.
“I got super excited,” she says. “And I loved that I was going to get to do it with my brother, Luke.”
Luke felt the same way. “I was thrilled,” he says. “I’m just really happy I get to do this with my sister.”
Both are seasoned performers for their age, each participating in Athletic Arts Center’s production of The Nutcracker for four years. Olivia has previously danced as a gingersnap, bonbon, soldier, and mouse, while Luke has performed as a soldier and Russian before stepping into the leading role this year.
This year, Olivia is especially looking forward to performing the lively party scene.
“It’s super fun and energetic, and it’s kind of challenging,” she says.
Luke loves the intensity of the battle scene and the excitement of bringing the Nutcracker character to life.
“My favorite dance is still the Russian dance in the Land of the Sweets because it’s very energetic and fun.” But playing the Nutcracker adds a new layer of excitement. “I had no clue I’d get to learn all these new moves,” he says.
At home, the pair often practices together. “If he gets lost or we’re struggling with something, we help each other,” Olivia says.
Olivia and Luke’s mother, Emily Donaldson, has watched them grow year after year, both as dancers and individuals.
“The biggest thing is the confidence,” she says. “This is run like a professional show. The green room, the backstage rules, the production – it all gives them such a learning experience. We’re lucky to have this in our community.”
As for watching them shine together in the roles of Clara and the Nutcracker, she adds: “It’s going to be so special. They’re very close. There are scenes where they walk in together or walk out together. It’s a very sweet bond.”
Athletic Arts Center owner Maria Ross shares the same excitement and admiration for the Brasher siblings.
“They are extremely hard-working,” she says. “When I give direction or corrections, I know they’re not just working on it in rehearsal, they also work on their own. I’ve seen them challenge themselves outside the studio.”
Ross noted that the 17th anniversary season carries a unique depth, thanks to dancers who have grown up in the production and now return to mentor younger performers.
Maria’s son Andrew, a former Nutcracker himself, is one of those returning dancers.
“He’s back helping us out this year, and it’s been exciting for me to see him coach and give insight from when he performed the role, including working directly with Luke.”
This season features the largest and most diverse cast yet, nearly 80 performers, including many newcomers and an increasing number of boys joining the production.
As opening night approaches, Olivia and Luke are eagerly preparing.
“I’m excited to see how I do, and to dance with my friends on stage,” Olivia says.
Luke added, “I’m really excited about all the new things we’ve added this year and our big cast.”
Athletic Arts Center invites families, friends, and community members to experience this cherished holiday tradition.
Performance Dates:
- Saturday, November 15 at 7 p.m.
- Sunday, November 16 at 2 p.m.
Location: Jasper High School’s Pam Brown Theatre | 1501 Viking Drive, Jasper, AL 35501
Tickets:
Purchase at the door or online at athleticartsctr.com/performances
- Adults: $18
- Students, Children, and Seniors (55+): $15
For updates regarding The Nutcracker and other upcoming events, follow Athletic Arts Center on Facebook. WL
