Local dancers present fourth annual Nutcracker performance at the Panida
December 12, 2025
By Kristi Stevens Reade Contributor
Allegro Dance Studio will present its fourth annual production of The Nutcracker, with performances Friday, Dec. 12 at 7 p.m., and Saturday, Dec. 13 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. at the Panida Theater (300 N. First Ave., in downtown Sandpoint).
A treasured holiday tradition for families across the community, The Nutcracker is brought to life entirely by local dancers — many of whom return year after year.
This year’s featured roles showcase the studio’s exceptional talent: Olivia Denham will perform as Clara, Adyssen Jolley as the Nutcracker and Kalissia Cipriano as the Rat Queen. While the full cast is too large to list individually, every dancer contributes to the magic of the show, and the ensemble is known for its dedication, artistry and love for the stage.
The Nutcracker cast, from left to right: Avonlea Stephens, Jane Hughes, Kalissia Cipriano, Clio Tzetos, Olivia Denham, Ady Jolley, Alexander Henderson and Elsa Reilly. Courtesy photo
Continuing a beloved Allegro tradition, parents will join their dancers in the classic Party Scene. Beyond the spotlight, parent volunteers help with costumes, sets, organization and logistics.
The show is led by Allegro Artistic Director Devyn Vaughan-Jolley, who has been dancing since age 3 and brings more than 30 years of experience to her work. As director and choreographer for all four years of Allegro’s Nutcracker, Vaughan-Jolley has shaped the production into one of Sandpoint’s most anticipated holiday traditions through her vision, leadership and commitment to local youth.
Joining her this year are retired professional dancers Michael and Traci Wojack, who have more than 40 years of worldwide performing experience. Their expertise, creativity and joyful teaching style have infused the production with fresh energy and a big support system.
Adding to the excitement, the Music Conservatory of Sandpoint’s North Idaho Philharmonia will accompany both Saturday shows, providing live symphonic music that deepens the emotional impact of Tchaikovsky’s iconic score. A select group of guest dancers from Alta Dance Studio will also join the cast, contributing additional artistry and flair.
The role of the Sugar Plum Fairy will be danced by Clio Tzetos, whose poise and expressive artistry bring new magic to the stage. Coming from Gonzaga with strong ballet training and a passion for performing, she is eager to share her talent with the Sandpoint community.
The dancers have spent months preparing, devoting countless hours to rehearsals to create a polished and enchanting performance. Their passion shines through in every scene, and they look forward to sharing the magic of this holiday classic once again.
Meanwhile, Allegro and the cast of dancers thank the sponsors supporting this year’s production, including Twilight Trails Photography, Fletched Archery, Turner Productions, Brown’s Northside Machine and Gear, RH Excavating Inc., Sandpoint Kids Dentistry, 113 Main, Cedar Creek Custom Homes, Doug Gunter-Realy Plus, Premier Tire and Shirley Stevens.
Community members of all ages are invited to experience the show, with its dazzling costumes, heartfelt performances, local talent and the timeless beauty of The Nutcracker. Tickets to the Dec. 12 performance are $42.50 for adults 18 and older and $20 for children 17 and younger, and $43 for premium, $40 for preferred and $38 for standard seating (all prices plus tax and fees) for the Dec. 13 shows, available at panida.org or allegrodancestudio.org.
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