Moscow Ballet To Benefit Hospice

The Sharon S. Richardson Hospice, through the generous sponsorship of Sargento, is bringing the Moscow Ballet performance of the Great Russian Nutcracker to the Stefanie H. Weill Center for the Performing Arts on Tuesday, Dec. 8, 2009 as a part of their annual fundraising efforts.

All ticket sales support the Hospice’s Patient Care Fund. This fund ensures that patients and their families are served regardless of their ability to pay. Tickets for the Moscow Ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker go on sale Thursday, Aug. 6, 2009 at the Weill Center Ticket Office, by phone at 920-208-3243 or online at www.weillcenter.com.

The total amount of the ticket purchase is tax deductible as a donation to the Richardson Hospice. Go to www.weillcenter.com for more details and to preview other upcoming performances.

The Moscow Ballet celebrates its 17th anniversary of touring the U.S. performing the Great Russian Nutcracker. This performance has become respected as the premier holiday season ballet. With a cast of over 30 performers on the tour, the show also includes over 70 young dancers, ranging in age from 5 to 25, from the Sheboygan area, and a youth choir of 30 harmonic voices. Featuring spectacular sets, hand painted in Moscow, and beautifully costumed Russian dancers; Moscow Ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker is an annual treat for the entire family. Whimsical and imaginative storytelling blends with the richness of Russian classical dance to make the Great Russian Nutcracker a unique performance not to be missed!

“We are proud have the community support to bring this outstanding performance back to Sheboygan and feel it offers everyone a unique way to be involved in the hospice and to enjoy an outstanding performance” stated Linda Cates, Development Director for the Richardson Hospice. The Hospice provides end-of-life care in the setting of the patient’s choice in a five county region – providing the Central Lakeshore’s only facility option, as well as care in their home, nursing homes, assisted living facilities and hospitals.

Ballet Choreographer Emelianov has been praised by critics for its unique setting of Act II in the "Land of Peace and Harmony." To convey his message of peace, Emelianov incorporates an ethereal dove that escorts Masha and the Prince to a land where there is no war and suffering.

Set against Valentin Fedorov's spectacular scenic design, with dancing, larger-than-life puppets and the backdrop of unicorns, exotic birds and animals, Moscow Ballet's Great Russian Nutcracker is a visual delight.