
Alex Oliva | Clara-Marie
Where are you from?
Originally from Southern California, I lived in San Francisco before moving to NYC.
If I weren’t a dancer, I’d be…
Something to do with animals!
My advice to young people who want to become a dancer is…
Trust your instincts, follow your impulses, and pass through your fears.
The best thing about being a dancer is…
Sharing the exciting and special moment of performance with the audience and fellow dancers.

Fernando Moya Delgado | Nutcracker, Prince, and Fritz
Where are you from?
I am Guayaquil, Ecuador! I lived there until I graduated from High School and try and visit at least once a year. I come from a vibrant and colorful culture full of music, community and celebration.
If I weren’t a dancer, I’d be…
—– N/A
My advice to young people who want to become a dancer is…
Practice and passion are so important!
The best thing about being a dancer is…
Expressing with my body and experimenting new worlds/stories with the audience and cast-mates.

Hilary Brown | Dewdrop Fairy
Where are you from?
I’m originally from Toronto, Canada, but studied dance and lived in Montreal until 2009, which is when I relocated to NYC.
If I weren’t a dancer, I’d be…
A costume designer.
My advice to young people who want to become a dancer is…
I would recommend watching videos of the type(s) of dancing that you like, and try to learn the movements for yourself. If this is a fun activity for you, try taking a dance class that interests you in the same way.
The best thing about being a dancer is…
Getting to perform as many different people/characters on stage.

John Pickup | Drosselmeyer and others
Where are you from?
I’m originally from Australia!
If I weren’t a dancer, I’d be…
Go to class as often as you can. Work hard. See live performances!
My advice to young people who want to become a dancer is…
Running a secondhand bookstore in a small town and have a pet donkey named Jack.
The best thing about being a dancer is…
The joy of expressing yourself physically.
My First Nutcracker
Adapted for young audiences by Barbara Zinn Krieger and directed and choreographed by Melissa Riker, NYCCT’s hit dance theater production returns to Theatre Row this holiday season!
My First Nutcracker celebrates and explores imagination, family, tradition, and female empowerment.