Maplewood Girl, 13, To Star In Theatrical Production For Holiday Season

MAPLEWOOD, NJ – A 13-year-old Maplewood Middle School student has landed the starring role of "Clara" in the New Jersey Dance Theatre Ensemble’s (NJDTE) full-length production of The Nutcracker.

Lorelei Harrington-Wright, the daughter of Heather Harrington and Daniel Wright, will star in the production, which kicks off in Summit on Dec. 10.

NJDTE has performed a full-length Nutcracker for 53 years in a row.

Set to the classic music of Peter Tchaikovsky and choreographed by NJDTE Artistic Director Nancy Turano, the ballet features 50 pre-professional dancers from New Jersey alongside renowned international guest artists.

“I am extremely grateful to portray the leading role of Clara this season," said Lorelie. "I want to thank the NJDTE staff for helping me get to where I am today, and my fellow students for being so kind to me."

The ensemble described Lorelei as "a very talented dancer who brings such artistic life to the role of Clara."

She will also be featured in the role of “Boy Chinese Lead," “Garland," and “Children’s Party scene,” said NJDTE Artistic Director Nancy Turano, who has led the ensemble since 1994.

All performances take place at New Jersey Dance Theatre Ensemble, 315b Springfield Ave., Summit.

The dates and times are: Saturday, Dec. 10 at 2 and 5 p.m., and Sunday, Dec. 11 at 2 and 5 p.m.

Tickets are $45 and are available online at www.njdte.org.