Sylvia Hurlburt strikes a pose and makes my toes hurt. (Michael Stadler photos)
Skyy Lippo elevates.
Contributed by Joe Lippo
“Oh, you need 10 practices before you can play in your first game? That’s cute.”
Ballet dancers like CHS’ own Sylvia Hurlburt and Skyylynn Lippo can probably do your practice without breaking a sweat.
They have been in full speed rehearsal since September for Whidbey Island Dance Theatre’s 22nd annual production of Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker.
This is where the whole island comes together for eight shows over two weeks, not counting the rehearsals.
“There were no cuts from your team? Everyone made it? That’s cute.”
Approximately 75 dancers showed up to audition for parts in the performance, and fully three quarters of those were sent home.
Dancers learn to handle rejection at a very early age. It’s a tough gig, and everyone knows it.
Except at the end, there is no trophy, no MVP, no varsity letter.
Just accolades, flowers, and if you’re really lucky, a standing ovation.
“Tape it and give me a Motrin, I’m going back out in 60 seconds.”
How many other sports require you to finish one piece, exit the stage, change an extremely elaborate costume, and get back on stage in under a minute?
Here’s a hint: NONE.
And if you can’t do that with a smile on your face, there is always another dancer that knows your part cold. They are waiting for the chance to show the director that they are better than you.
This is not the kiddie version of the Nutcracker, this is the one that can compete with any other show.
The show starts on December 12th, and closes on the 21st. All shows are on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, with two shows on Saturday.
For ticket info, pop over to:
To see more of Michael Stadler’s photography, check out:
