Dear Dances Patrelle Family,

A HUGE thank you to all the children, parents, dancers, Ballet Masters and volunteers who worked endless hours to make this beloved production possible. The Yorkville Nutcracker has been a December tradition at the Kaye Playhouse for 25-years, and has become a staple of New York’s holiday season because you make it happen. It has not been easy. This year, staging a full production in spite of the pandemic, was particularly challenging. But seeing the excitement and smiles of our children has reminded us of why we do all this.

We come to you today not as the presidents of the board, but as parents. Our kids grew up with The Yorkville Nutcracker.  Our daughters started at the age of 6, and are now dancing in adult roles. Every year they have looked forward to their next role. Having our children in The Yorkville Nutcracker has been a holiday tradition in our households year after year. It has been a gift that not only taught our children stage presence, but it has given them confidence and discipline for their lives beyond the theater. Without Dances Patrelle the holidays would not be the same.  

To keep this wonderful tradition going for next year and the years beyond we need your generous support. Ticket sales are important to us, but they do not fully put the show on the stage. We have to store and care for The Yorkville Nutcracker even in spring and summer. Many of the costumes and props are fully 25-years old. Getting them in condition year after years is becoming more difficult and more costly. Some of our costumes will very soon need to be fully rebuilt.

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We have pulled together to put The Yorkville Nutcracker on the stage for its 25th Anniversary. Let’s now work together to make sure it lasts and returns to the stage for years to come. 

 

Please help us continue this tradition. Here’s to another 25! 

Simone Zeko & Sandra Burch

Co-Presidents of the Board

Dances Patrelle