Due to the most recent round of COVID-19 restrictions, Owensboro Dance Theatre has decided to postpone its performance of “The German American Bank Nutcracker.” Originally scheduled for Dec. 5 and 6 on the RiverPark Center stage, the performances are now set for Dec. 19-20.
Despite having to push the performance back amid restrictions put in place last week by Gov. Andy Beshear, which limited indoor gatherings and events such as plays, ODT Assistant Artistic Director Jaysie Beth Royal said the cast of the 28th annual Nutcracker is determined to see their performance hit the stage.
“Owensboro Dance Theatre’s cast members and staff have been working hard in preparation for ‘The German American Bank Nutcracker’ since before October,” Royal said.
Royal added that ODT had taken many precautions to ensure the safety and continued health of its dancers, volunteers and patrons. This year, the 120 extra cast members were divided into two smaller casts that will be performing three public performances.
ODT also created strict safety protocols and will be utilizing the entire RiverPark Center auditorium to allow for social distancing and guarantee the health and safety of those in the audience.
“We are hopeful the 28th Nutcracker will take place. It is a holiday tradition for so many in the Owensboro community,” Royal said. “ODT has added grand attractions to the concert this year, including video projection backdrops. COVID-19 has been difficult for us all, but ODT has done the best it can to continue to give back to the community and keep Owensboro dancing.”
While the play will go on, ODT had to cancel its annual Snowball Daddy Daughter event due to COVID-19 The dance company will instead be holding its first 50/50 cash raffle. Each of the 48 ODT Company and Apprentice Company members are selling 25 tickets at $10 apiece, Royal said.
The raffle will be open to the public and tickets can be purchased in-person on Dec. 6 at Johnson Dance Studio, located at 2705 Breckinridge St. from noon-5 p.m.
The drawing for the raffle will be held Dec. 12 at Smothers Park and will begin at 1 p.m. It will be streamed via Facebook Live for those who are unable to attend. Those who participate do not have to be present to win, Royal said.
