'Tis the season for tons of dancing and holiday cheer! There is no doubt that there is some extra sparkle on the stage when you have the chance to perform during the holiday season. There are tons of holiday classics choreographed for the stage that we hold near and dear to our hearts. We turned to one of the most graceful and inspirational young dancers, Quinn Starner, and asked her what holiday show makes her happiest. Her answer: The Nutcracker!

JJ: Why do you love ballet and performing during the holidays? What roles in The Nutcracker have you played in the past?

Quinn: I love ballet and performing around the holidays for so many reasons. I have been doing ballet for over 13 years, and this will be my 13th time performing in The Nutcracker! I love the challenge of ballet and how hard you have to work to try to make it look effortless. The Nutcracker is one of my all time favorite productions. I have played so many roles! I have been a Mouse, Prologue, Ginger Snap, Candy Cane, Party Girl, Snow, Spanish, Chinese, and Dew Drop. I have also played the role of Clara several times.

JJ: What role is your favorite?

Quinn: So far, Clara has been my favorite role! One of the most favorite memories of playing Clara was in The Radio City Christmas Spectacular with the Rockettes!

JJ: What role are you playing this year?

Quinn: This year, I get to play my dream part...the role of Sugar Plum Fairy! I feel like I have waited my entire life for this role! I can't believe I get the chance to do it this year. It really is a dream come true! Also, my ballet studio brings in a principle dancer from Boston Ballet that I get to dance with on stage. Words can not describe how happy and honored I am!

JJ: That is so amazing!! Best of luck to you! Why do you love performing in The Nutcracker?

There are so many reasons why I love performing in The Nutcracker. The holiday season is amazing and I really feel the holiday magic when I am on stage performing. The Nutcracker is such a tradition for me and my family...it is a classic! Everyone knows and loves the story. The music is amazing and festive. I can't wait to start hearing all of the songs this time of the year! Also, I love playing different roles and having the chance to wear so many different costumes each year. The costumes are so much fun!!  I have so many memories from The Nutcracker that I will cherish forever! Year after year, I get to perform on stage with great friends! The Nutcracker has become a tradition for me and I look forward to this show every year!