Our comic moment in The Nutcracker

It's hard to believe it even happened now but a few days ago I had the opportunity to be involved in The National Ballet of Canada's Nutcracker.

No, I wasn't actually dancing (my infamous robot dance moves would likely not be as acceptable in 19th century Russia where this production was set) but we did get to don some colourful costumes (nothing says coolness like pompons and knit slippers!), hang out backstage and have a few comic moments in front of the audience as cannon dolls.

You can read more about it here but I put together a little video sharing my perspective of the experience with you.  Unfortunately we couldn't get any footage of the actual performance (not allowed) but I explain what happened here... (and you're welcome in advance that I edited out much of my rambling...definitely not ready for prime time!)

Can't see that vid?  Click here.

Heather Ogden in The Nutcracker

Photo by Bruce Zinger

Thanks to the National Ballet for the very cool experience - my mother-in-law was thrilled and we both thoroughly enjoyed every moment, despite my almost being taken out by a horse backing up.  (Thank you Lindsay Fischer for the repeated reminders to avoid colliding with performers who lack spacial awareness in their costumes!)

James Kudelka's Nutcracker runs through to January 3, 2012 at the Four Seasons Centre for the Performing Arts.  Don't miss it!