An annual holiday favorite, Dance Theater in Westchester performs its family-friendly, full-length version of Tchaikovsky’s ballet set in wintry colonial Yorktown, complete with a red-coated mouse army, an enchanted nutcracker prince, and simultaneous narration to help young audience members enjoy this timeless classic.

Dan Hogan: Born in NYC and raised in Yorktown. My love for the performing arts started right here at the Paramount Theater when my father first took me to see “Mary Poppins”. I was enchanted by the movies “musical magic” and pleaded to see it several more times. Lucky for me that my father was my biggest supporter as I envisioned becoming the next Dick Van Dyke! That Christmas season we were right back at the Paramount for a special screening of ‘Santa Claus Conquers The Martians” complete with a “real” Santa visiting the children in the lobby! Even though that particular movie was such a “clunker” that it now has cult status, I was hooked on the sheer spectacle of it all and pursuing a career in performing arts. I started dance training with Dee Erickson (Peter Gennaro) then ballet with Rose Menes right in Yorktown before traveling to the city for professional studies and career. For many years I would return to perform various roles in the Colonial Nutcracker. This year is very special to be called back to the same magical theater to roles of Drosselmeyer (Sam Hickman) and everyone’s favorite the “Comic Relief” Mother Ginger. Rose is a legendary treasure of professional theater and show have her own “Broadway Show” to honor all her contributions and dedication to the performing arts enriching the cultural lives of so many local people.