The Citadel Dance & Music Center presents “A Steamed Nutcracker” December 20th, 2025 at the Mendel Center at Lake Michigan College. This “steampunk twist” on a holiday favorite has become a local tradition since its inception in 2015. The production features story and choreography by Citadel Director of Dance, Lari Lawrence-Gist with score by Pyotr IlyichTchaikovsky performed by a professional orchestra directed by Steven L. Reed.
The story begins with a holiday ball held by the heroine, Sansa, inside her zeppelin. The party is attended by many of her friends, including her best friend, Cora, and a handsome soldier (Lawton) who, despite Cora’s best attempts to beguile him, falls in love with Sansa. The Seer and her Three Eyed Ravens fruitlessly try to warn Sansa of impending doom, but Sansa refuses to listen. The Seer shares the prophecy with Fiametta (Sansa sister) and by doing so, she sets in motion the very series of events she was trying to avoid. Guests depart and Sansa falls asleep with the events of the evening haunting her dreams. Her vivid dreams are a delicious visual treat for the audience and include unforgettable characters such as a flock of Three Eyed Ravens, Timekeeping White Rabbits and Father Thyme. Blinded by jealousy, Cora returns to attack Sansa and The Seer’s prophesy is fulfilled. In the end, The Seer must decide if the best way to protect Sansa is by letting her go.
“A Steamed Nutcracker” will be danced by Citadel students and faculty and includes many different genres of dance. “Sansa” will be danced by BSHS seniors, Lily Arnold (matinee) and Hadley House (evening). “Cora” will be danced by SJHS juniors Piper Seaton (matinee), and Genevieve Gatt (evening). “Lawton” will be danced by BSHS junior, Titan Shaw. “The Seer” is danced by Lari Lawrence-Gist. The full score, written by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, will be played live by an orchestra of professional musicians from across the region and directed by Steven L. Reed.
The dance center had as its special goal this season, to bring performing arts students from across the county to a performance. Sponsors include the Upton Foundation and the Southwest Michigan Tourist Council.
Sansa’s Tea Party will be held in the North Lobby at 3:30 between performances. This is a traditional tea party including tea, cocoa, savory, and sweet treats, hosted by Sansa . All ages are welcome. This is a ticketed event. $5 Tea Party admission. $15 VIP ticket includes backstage tour.
Tickets are available at www.citadedancemusic.ludus.com and range from $15-$30.
Performances December 20th at 1 & 6 p.m.
More information at www.citadeldmc.org or by calling 269.925.1099.
