Behind the scenes at The Nutcracker & The Christmas Carol

November 25, 2013

Olivia Bordin

Olivia Bordin could give us lessons on how to juggle a busy schedule. The 10-year-old Christ the King School fifth grader keeps on top of her studies and fits in ballet, tap, jazz, gymnastics, voice, and musical theatre classes every week. She also spends weekends rehearsing for her two roles in The Nutcracker—the lead little white mouse and a gingersnap—and smiles at the thought of stage fright. “We’ve trained and practiced for ‘show mode’,” she said, “so we’re ready.” Olivia has appeared in past performances, and admits she would love to dance the role of Clara someday for such a well-loved Toledo tradition. Her sister is one of the Company girls, and mom helps with costumes, so this show is a real family affair. “This is a really fun program that is good for all ages,” she explained, “with sad and happy and wonderful all in one show.”

Dominique Glover

You can’t perform The Nutcracker without some older “kids,” and Dominique Glover is one of the older kids in this year’s show. He will dance the role of Arabian for the third time, bringing his love of contemporary jazz to the role. He will also play Chinese (Tea), and promises that this year’s show will be special because of new dancers. “I am honored to participate in this show, which brings so many people to each performance. People recognize me as the Arabian in the show, and it makes me feel somewhat like a celebrity.” Glover teaches contemporary jazz at Toledo Ballet, calling that genre a fusion of all different styles. “I like the freedom it allows in choreography, to be as expressive as the body can be.” His role as Arabian will give him the opportunity to use that expressiveness in the “most non-balletic section of the show.”

Gabe Omlor

Gabe Omlor has the role of Tiny Tim in this year’s A Christmas Carol, and some call him the “Tiniest Tim” ever. But there is nothing tiny about his enthusiasm for the theater. This 9-year-old Beverly School fourth-grader has already appeared in nine productions, and is looking forward to being the sad, poor boy who touches Ebenezer Scrooge’s heart. Gabe brings serious and comedy theater experience to his role, as well as a confidence that comes from an actor doing what he loves. “I hope to be in movies or TV…I want it all,” he admits. He rehearses three days a week, and works on his singing and dancing in his “spare time.” Gabe says he’s so used to being onstage that he never gets nervous. “And I have tons of big brothers and sisters in the show who are willing to help me. The environment on this show is like a family.”

The Martin-Hayden Family

Roan, Raeanna, Jamie and Dana, in costume

A Christmas Carol is a family affair for the Martin-Hayden family. Jamie, Dana, and children, Roan, and Raeanna are cast in the chorus, and Roan appears as a dancer and a young Scrooge. Mom Dana says that hearing the story every night as they rehearse brings their family closer and reminds them of Dickens’ powerful and timeless message. Roan, 16 , and Raeanna, 12, both students at Toledo School for the Arts, got into acting through classes and children’s productions at the Toledo Repertoire Theater, and enjoy doing a show with people who have helped with their training. They have encouraged their parents to share their love of theater. This is the 4th year the family has appeared in the show together. Dana explains, “What better way to spend family time than to be part of a show promoting the same values we try to replicate as a family every day at home.”

Holiday hullabaloo

Rhonda Wilson

November 25, 2013

7060 Sylvania Ave. • 419-885-1167 x332 • childrenswonderland.org
Children’s Wonderland is a classic Toledo tradition with a plethora of lights, life-size decrations, a ride-on train and plenty of other ways to celebrate the holidays. Buy some toys, satisfy your sweet tooth, or take some silly pictures to make this trip memorable. Santa’s Workshop will be held December 14 &21 from 8:30am to 10:30am (admission $8) and will include a strolling Santa (who will be available for pictures, so bring your camera!), a continental breakfast for the kids, a train ride, and elf workstations.

Open daily, December 13-28, from 11am to 8pm (December 24, 11am-2pm; closed December 25). $5 adults / $3 kids 3-12 / $2 seniors 65 & up / $5, kids’ zone pass.

11600 County Rd. 99, Findlay • 419-423-2995 • nworrp.org
Bring your whole family for an exhilarating quarter-scale steam train ride as the steam engine chugs its way around the track through a magical winter wonderland of sparkling holiday lights and festive decorations.

Every weekend through December 29: Fridays, 6-9pm; Saturdays, 5-9pm; Sundays, 5-8pm. $1 kids 12 & under / $2 adults
(price includes one train ride ticket).

3201 Levis Commons Blvd., Perrysburg • 419-931-8888 • shopleviscommons.com For a truly magical holiday experience, hop on a horse-drawn carriage ride. Pick-up is located on Chappel Dr. near Schakolad Chocolate Factory.

Every Saturday through December 28, 5-8pm. $5 person / $10 family.

2 Hippo Way • 419-385-4040 • toledozoo.org
TThousands of lights illuminate the walkways and the animals, creating a unique experience for zoo-goers. Look for other special events throughout the month, like ice carving demos, a visit from the Toledo Walleye hockey team, a Santa Paws gift shop, and more. Zoo-goers can experience the lights every day of December (except 24 & 25): Sundays through Thursdays, 3-8pm; Fridays & Saturdays, 3-9pm. Free kids under 2 / $10 kids under 2-11 / $13 adults / $10 seniors 65 & up (discounts and packages available online).

1035 River Rd., Maumee • 419-893-9602 • wolcotthouse.com
Celebrate the timeless Christmas tale! Evoking the classic holiday poem, the Wolcott House will decorate its rooms with antique toys, treats, multiple Santas, traditional gowns, art prints and more. Open every Thursday through Sunday (until December 29) at 12:30pm. $5 adults / $4 seniors / $1.50 students.

Main Street • 419-287-4305 • pemberville.org
Pemberville will kick off the holiday season with their first annual Lighted Christmas Parade. Floats, marching bands, vehicles and local groups, all lit up like Christmas trees, will march from the public library to city hall. The event will cap off Pemberville’s Christmas Village festival, so be sure to arrive early for food, games, crafts and more. Parade begins at 6:30pm.

1 Discovery Way • 419-244-2674 • imaginationstationtoledo.org
Reserve your spot for this members-only pajama dance
party with cookies, cocoa, dancing and Santa Claus.
Experiment with holiday-themed activities and demonstrations, story time with Santa’s #1 elf, a special visit by Santa’s reindeer and chilly animals from The Toledo Zoo. 6-8pm. Free to members.

410 Adams St. • 419-242-2787 • toledorep.org
The Rep’s rendition of the family classic “A Christmas Carol” will bring to life Charles Dickens’ timeless story of Scrooge, Tiny Tim and the ghosts of Christmas past, present and future. Don’t be the humbug that misses out on this great tradition! Friday & Saturday at 8pm; Sunday at 2:30pm. $25 adults / $20 seniors / $15 kids; group tickets available.

22611 St. Rt. 2, Archbold • 800-590-9755 • saudervillage.org
The flicker of a candle will light the way as a costumed guide invites small groups on a journey to meet historical characters in various locations. Guests will experience the holiday customs and celebrations of the 1900s. Additional tours take place
December 7, 13 & 14. Pre-registration/payment is required. Tours last approximately 90 minutes and are repeated every half hour from 4-8:30pm. $12 non-member adults / $7 kids 3 & up.

5100 W. Central Ave. • 419-407-9701 • metroparkstoledo.com
A popular Toledo tradition, the iconic Manor House is celebrating its 75th year with a Christmas extravaganza. From December 7-15, walk through the manor’s 32 rooms and view the exquisite holiday decorations. Kids and adults can also participate in craft workshops at the Farmhouse throughout the nine-day run. Snacks and crafts will be available at The Cafe. 10am-8pm. Free admission.

6165 Levis Commons Blvd., Perrysburg
419-931-8888 • shopleviscommons.com
Children will love decorating a gingerbread house that is theirs to keep during this fundraiser for ISOH/Impact. Fill up your belly and your tea cup at the buffet which will be stocked full of teas, soups and desserts. 11:30am-1pm, first session; 1:30-3:30pm, second session. $25 individual tickets / $45 tea & gingerbread package.

2901 Key St., Maumee • 419-893-4589 • co.lucas.oh.us
Browse a selection of handmade items from area crafters, and enjoy raffles, an auction, refreshments and lunch. Free admission and parking. All proceeds benefit the Make-A-Wish foundation. 10-4pm.

2201 Secor Rd. • 419-536-8383 • hopetoledo.net
Experience first century Bethlehem right here in Toledo! For two days, Hope Lutheran Church will transfrom into a bustling marketplace, complete with authentic wares, smells and sounds, along with a Nativity scene. Local chorale and orchestras will also perform during the event. 1-6pm. Free admission.

Peristyle Theater • 2445 Monroe St. • 419-246-8000 • toledosymphony.com
The Toledo Symphony Orchestra, Toledo Choral Society and BGSU University Choral Society will again collaborate for this stellar performance of the popular oratorio. Also, celebrate TSO’s Family Christmas at the Peristyle the day before the concert (Saturday, December 7, 3pm, $20-$25), featuring holiday sing-alongs, storytelling and a visit from Santa. Handel’s Messiah starts at 2pm. Tickets available online, start at $35.

4645 Heatherdowns Blvd. • 419-381-8851 • stranahantheater.com
The Toledo Ballet will be accompanied by the Toledo Symphony Orchestra to present the timeless holiday classic of a young girl and her magical nutcracker doll. Saturday at 2pm & 7pm; Sunday at 2pm. Cost $24-$54.

3754 Woodley Rd. • 419-475-7054 • stgeorgerossford.org
The holiday wouldn’t be complete without some delicious treats! St. George’s Cathedral will sell traditional and ethnic cookies, all homemade and complimented with warm coffee. The cathedral’s bookstore will also be open. Call any time before 2pm for more information. 10am-4pm. Lunch is available from 11:30am-2pm.

Main Branch • 325 Michigan St. • 419-259-5200 • toledolibrary.org
Every day this week, the library will host a family-friendly, holiday-themed performance featuring local musicians and choral groups, including the Toledo School for the Arts, Masterworks Chorale, Northview High School Jazz Band and more. All the performances are free and will take place at the main branch’s Wintergarden. December 16-20. 12:30-1:30pm. Free.

2315 Collingwood Blvd. • 419-243-6248 • [email protected]
The Toledo Symphony Orchestra will perform your favorite holiday tunes at this fun Christmas concert. Enjoy classic melodies in an intimate space. Perfect for the entire family. Tickets available through the church. 3:30pm. $10 advance / $15 door.

For the Love of Dance

Nadine Hariri

November 25, 2013

APAC organizers Karen Medina and Katie Nault teach a new program that has captivated hearts, re-molding the possibilities for the special needs community and performing arts.

Toledo Area Parent attended a practice and performance, and watched the magic come to life as contagious smiles and bravery lit up the dance floor while bouncing to Beyoncé’s ‘Single Ladies’.

Tell me about Adaptive Performing Arts Center

Karen: “What we’re doing is giving these special needs students an opportunity to experience their own dance studio. So they’re not trying to go to a competition studio and fit in. This is their home. Dance, music lessons and theatre are also offered so that more people can be a part of it. Expression is so powerful. Everybody has ideas and visuals and it’s an amazing feeling to be able to share them.

They’re comfortable here. It’s very supportive and we all understand each other’s challenges, difficulties and obstacles. It’s not about how you can help them.

It’s about how they are going to help you. You have to be ready for that with special needs children.”

In what ways have the students helped you?

Karen: “Patience has been my greatest teacher. When I get the hugs and high-fives, that’s what makes it all worth it. When I see somebody able to do something that they couldn’t a week ago, that’s what makes it real.”

Katie: “They humble me. They are never afraid to try anything. I tell them I’m allergic to the words ‘I can’t, I won’t, and I don’t’. It’s incredible to see how far they will push. Another thing is that our students are told so often throughout the day what to do and how to do it. Here, you get to see their individual personalities emerge.”

How did you become involved with the special needs community?

Karen: “Earma Algee, of the Lucas County Developmental Disabilities office, approached me after a dance class and said ‘What do you think about doing this?’ And I said ‘Why not?’ I’ve been in the dance world for 30 years so I’ve seen a lot of sequins, glitter and mascara. And none of that makes you a better person… this does.”

Katie: “I spent more summers than I can remember working with special needs children. When I got tickets to come see Karen’s show, I was hooked. It’s not just moving to music, dance improves your life in so many ways. We’ve learned exercises that can improve reading retention and we have the opportunity to teach it to students and their caregivers.”

What’s your long-term goal?

Karen: “I want everybody who walks through this door to benefit somehow. Our passion is our technique.”

Katie: “I want to make sure that everybody here is given an opportunity to express themselves in whatever way is healthy. We encourage anyone to let us know if their child has an interest so we can come up with a way to accommodate them.”

The Adaptive Performing Arts Center is located at 151 N. Michigan Ave., Toledo. For more information or to get involved, call 419-309-1610 or
email [email protected].

Returning from the Big Apple to the Glass City as champions

Nadine Hariri

November 25, 2013

After a three-day battle, the Southview Mock Trial Team returned home from the Big Apple as world champions.

The team won the world title at the Empire City Invitational tournament, topping over 40 other teams from five countries worldwide. “It Could Happen to Anyone”, the winning court case that captured the trophy, dealt with criminal charges regarding reckless driving.

Seeded in 35th place before the final championship round, the defense team made the ultimate comeback to take first place. Southview Mock Trial Team coach and local attorney Denny Lyle has had a 20-year run, training students to effectively argue and defend cases. This is the third team Denny has led from Southview to the New York City tournament. To help them further prepare for the case, Sergeant Justin Music of the Sylvania City Police and Judge Scott Ramey reviewed for them the ins and outs of working an impaired driving case.

St. Ursula Students Take Action

Erin Schoen Marsh

November 25, 2013

Nine students from St. Ursula’s STEM (science, technology, engineering, mathematics) team decided they wanted to address the Maumee River’s pollution and algae problem. Jackie Kane, STEM adviser, explains how they decided their plan of action: “After much research, we found that the best place to remediate for pollution is at the site of origin. So we figured before we do anyone else’s backyard, we better do our own.”

The team decided to remediate a run-off area on the school’s property to simplify the rain garden idea to boost water quality. They removed the polluted mud, replaced it with clean dirt, and added rocks and plants from Toledo Environmental Services. They then submitted their plan to the Lexus Eco Challenge, a national contest that encourages middle and high school students to create and implement programs that positively impact their surrounding ecological environments.

The Lexus Eco Challenge, hosted by luxury automaker Lexus, and Scholastic, the global children’s publishing, education and media company, chose 16 winning teams nationwide, and St. Ursula was one of them. Each team received a total of $10,000 in grants and scholarships.

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