Performing in 'The Nutcracker': A Holiday Tradition for Fair Haven Sisters

An announcement from the Company of Dance Arts in Red Bank:

This holiday season “Red Bank’s Official Ballet Company” the Company of Dance Arts (CODA), enthusiastically returns to the stage to present their latest production of The Nutcracker at the Count Basie Theatre. The Nutcracker, a timeless ballet, has given many thousands their first glimpse of classical ballet as audiences join Clara and her Nutcracker on a magical journey through the Land of Snow and Kingdom of Sweets to meet the Sugarplum Fairy!

This holiday classic has turned into a family tradition for the Laughinghouse family of Fair Haven! Three of the Laughinghouse sisters have been performing in CODA’s Nutcracker for many years. 

This year, 11-year-old Emily Laughinghouse will perform the featured role of Clara’s mischievous little brother, “Fritz”.  She shares the role with Holmdel’s Rayna Ruggeri. 16-year-old Kelly Laughinghouse will perform a featured role as “Spanish Chocolate” in the Land of the Sweets. 16-year-old Tyler McManus, also of Fair Haven will also perform as the Lead Marzipan, among other roles. 

Other dancers from Fair Haven include Brett Cetnar-Garrett, Holly Cugini, Arabella Garrison, Chloe Goldin, Peyton Lore, Taylor Lore, Elizabeth Martin, Michael Mazucca, Quinn McManus, Connor Medrow, Kathryn Medrow, Bridget Mikolajczyk, Anna Phillips,  Carl Smith, Caitlin Weeth, Maia Werner, Casey Wolfe.  Dancers from Rumson include Gianna Casale, Olivia Flippo, Emma Freeman, Ava Longo, Emily Mack, Shao Peterson, Julianne Sackett, Phoebe Short, Morgan Skove, Alison Williams, Emily Williams

The Company of Dance Arts' The Nutcracker is the only area production to feature the choreography of Peter Anastos set to Tchaikovsky's celebrated score, with elaborate Victorian costuming and the famous Christmas tree that "grows". Under the direction of Founder, Jennifer James Church and Artistic Directors, Nicholas and Shayne Mishoe, CODA has been performing The Nutcracker in area theatres for over 25 years.  CODA has special performances for school children and often provides complimentary tickets for the under privileged. 

Tickets are available through the Box Office at (732) 842-9000 for the performances on Saturday December 10th and Sunday December 11th at 1:00pm and 5:00pm.Tickets are priced at $35, $25, and $15 with a $3 discount (two top price levels) for seniors and children age 12 and under. Visit www.countbasietheatre.org for details.

The Company of Dance Arts, New Jersey's premier pre-professional ballet company, serves first and foremost to provide young dancers with performance opportunities that meet professional standards of artistic development, performance values and production qualities. Founded in 1985 by Jennifer James Church, the non-profit company performs The Nutcracker each December and a production from its vast repertoire in the spring.

Company of Dance Arts 59 (Rear) Chestnut Street • Red Bank, New Jersey 07701 • Phone 732.842.4015 • www.codanj.com