Marblehead High School sophomore Gordon Andrews is heading to Boston this holiday season to dance in the opening hip-hop sequence of Anthony Williams’ “Urban Nutcracker” at the Boch Center Shubert Theatre. This year marks the production’s 25th season.
Andrews has spent more than a decade training at local studios, including Kids in Motion at the JCC, Marblehead Dance Company and Phunk Phenomenon in Everett. He also sharpens his technique during school vacations at the Joffrey Ballet in New York City and has performed in flash mobs and music videos specializing in hip-hop and commercial dance.
He now teaches and mentors young dancers at Marblehead Dance Company.
“I never imagined I would be dancing in the opening of this legendary production,” he said. “I’ve met so many dancers from the Boston area who are passionate about creating positive social change through dance. I hope my performance inspires young dancers, and I’d love to help more Marbleheaders join the production next year.”
“Urban Nutcracker” brings its mission of “diversity through dance” to life with scenes set to Tchaikovsky and Duke Ellington. Anchored in classical ballet, the show blends tap, hip-hop, breaking, flamenco and jazz, all backed by an eight-piece ensemble of Boston musicians.
Andrews will perform Sunday, Dec. 14, at 1 and 5:30 p.m.; Thursday, Dec. 18, at 7 p.m.; and Saturday, Dec. 20, at 2 and 7 p.m. Tickets are available at the Boch Center box office, bochcenter.org/urbannutcracker or 866-348-9738, and through Ticketmaster.
