It may only be May, but the chance to perform in a holiday tradition meant Christmas came early this year for eight-year-old Alyson Tyerman of Surrey.
Alyson was among hundreds of hopefuls who took part in auditions at the Scotiabank Dance Centre in Vancouver for Goh Ballet’s The Nutcracker ballet.
Winning a coveted role in the production means performing alongside critically acclaimed dancers from the New York City Ballet with live accompaniment from the Vancouver Opera Orchestra.
“This is actually her first audition – her ballet teacher recommended that she come here today, and that teacher used to dance at Goh, so she should know what she’s talking about,” said nervous father Ian Tyerman outside the audition room.
Inside, Alyson danced before the judges, including The Nutcracker executive producer and prima ballerina Chan Hon Goh, and choreographer Anna-Marie Holmes.
Alyson learned she won a spot in the production a week after her audition.
Goh Ballet’s presentation of The Nutcracker will take place from Dec. 19-23 at the The Centre in Vancouver for Performing Arts.
