Guest Blogger: Erin Gifford, Director of Communications and Development at the Puppet Co.
Well, it’s that time of year again. There’s shopping to be done, parties to attend, and shows to be seen. You’re probably going to see one of the many productions of “The Nutcracker” by a ballet company in the D.C. metropolitan area. And although the music is quite beautiful and really gets you in the holiday spirit, it’s probably not Dad’s favorite time of the year to go to the theater. Sitting through a two-and-a-half ballet is not his idea of a good time. It’s not too much fun for the kids either.
But wait – the Puppet Co. is here to save the day! We have a version of this infamous holiday production that Dad and the kids will definitely enjoy. It’s a puppet version that is only 50 minutes long, featuring marionettes and larger-than-life costume characters. All your favorite Tchaikovsky tunes are there, accompanying Clara-Marie and Fritz as they play with the toys given to them from Godpapa; as the Nutcracker and his toy soldiers fight off the Mouse King and his minions; and as Clara-Marie and the Nutcracker venture to the Land of the Sugarplum Fairy to watch a dancing donkey, a glittering dragon and of course, waltzing flowers!

Now, Dad, you are probably thinking, “Puppets?! Puppets are for kids.” Yes, this is a production for children. But this show brings out grandparents and even young couples on dates! It’s such a magical experience with lots of special effects that we promise to “wow” moms, dads, grandparents, teens and kids alike. You will walk away knowing the story of “The Nutcracker” better than you ever have before. And you will even come back year after year, as many of our patrons do. Even after the kids are all grown up.
So come on down, Dad. It is a truly a treat for the WHOLE family.