By John Posada
originally published: 12/20/2021
(DEAL PARK, NJ) -- Axelrod Contemporary Ballet Theater (AXCBT) presented "The Nutcracker Rocks" at Axelrod Performing Arts Center from December 11-19 and photographer John Posada was on hand to take some photos of the show. This contemporary adaptation of the ballet was conceived by AXCBT Artistic Director Gabriel Chajnik. Based on Tchaikovsky’s beloved score, “The Nutcracker Rocks,” includes a revamped rock score by The Gaslight Anthem's Alex Levine and Alex Rosamilia.
With an updated script by Reuben Jackson and Jason Cohen, “The Nutcracker Rocks” follows a bored, teen Clara, who must endure her family’s posh holiday party on the Upper East Side until her eccentric Uncle Dross shows up with his rock music, magical toys, and a special gift for Clara. He then transports Clara to a magic land—the Jersey Shore —where the traditional Land of Sweets is a candy shop in Asbury Park.Â
Axelrod Contemporary Ballet Theater is a program of the Axelrod Performing Arts Center with performances at the Axelrod PAC located in Deal Park, NJ, and Bell Works in Holmdel. The Axelrod PAC produces a series of professional theatrical productions a year, including musicals, concerts, and student productions. A 501c3 organization, the Axelrod PAC receives major funding for its programs from the NJ State Arts Council. Â
About the author: John Posada is a New Jersey based photographer specializing in photographing live theatre and music performances. Currently, John has spent the last 6 years concentrating on photographing almost 400 theater productions at over 70 different NJ theatres. Click here for John's website.
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