They’re back and sexier than ever!
Company XIV, known for their incredible burlesque shows, are back with their annual holiday show, ‘The Nutcracker Rouge.’
‘The Nutcracker Rouge’ takes the classic tale of ‘The Nutcracker’ and puts a very sexy and dark burlesque twist to it. The story is very similar to the original tale. Clara is taken to the land of sweets. However, this land has been reinterpreted to also be a land of sex, eroticism, and kink. Clara is then taken throughout this land and introduced to all the various characters in the tale. However, each classic character has been reimagined with a burlesque twist. Imagine the black licorice forest but the main character is now a black licorice dominatrix. ‘The Nutcracker Rouge’ story unfolds throughout each scene as Clara sheds away her layers (of clothing) to reveal her inner self finally liberated and free. The show ends with a final performance between Clara and the nutcracker prince.
What is amazing about each Company XIV production is the way the incorporate a variety of performance styles into one show. Going to see a Company XIV show means you are about to see some of the best ballet, opera, and circus acts you will ever see. The cast of this show are some of the most incredibly talented and versatile performers you will ever come around. Where else will you get to see a performer do aerial acrobatics while simultaneously singing an operatic interpretation of a popular hit song?
One thing that is always very impressive with a Company XIV production is the styling of their clothing. It is a feat to make an entire outfit made of sequin look expensive and tasteful. The way each sparkle hit the light was absolutely captivating and really added another layer to this performance and the telling of the story. Each character’s costume was unique and had so much detailing put into it that there are times you wish the performers kept the costumes on so you can appreciate the detailing a little more.
Austin McCormick, the brains behind this show, does it again with another amazing interpretation of ‘The Nutcracker Rouge.’ What I love about this show is that each year, there are aspects that are different, so you will never feel like it’s the same show every year. The level of adaptability and imagination it takes to reinvent a show over and over again is something that needs to be mentioned and praised. The cast features Christine Flores, Albert Cadabra, Marcy Richardson, Ashley Dragon, Benjamin Freedman, Josh Hobbs, Myles Hunter, Nicholas Katen, Youngsil Kim, Lilin Lace, LEXXE, Troy Lingelbach, Nolan McKew, Jacoby Pruitt, Cristina Rae, Cara Seymour, Hannah Straney, Sam Urdang and Nicole Von Arx.
All in all, ‘The Nutcracker Rouge’ is a show that people must see. The level of talent and performance put into this show is something on a different level. The show runs through January 26 and is performed at Company XIV’s own theater called Theatre XIV in Brooklyn. Be sure to grab your tickets and check out this show.