Austin McCormick’s reimagined version of classic tale “The Nutcracker” is known for being a bit more naughty than nice. “Nutcracker Rouge” has had such a great run that is has been extended throughout January.
“The Nutcracker” is a cultural dance phenomenon, which allows for many interpretations of Tschaikovsky's 1892 score. McCormick and his troupe, Company XIV, have reworked the show into a grown-up version of the family friendly favorite.
McCormick named his troupe as a homage to King Louis XIV of France, who was known for staging elaborate productions, some lasting over 12 hours, which included dance, music, and song. He uses this inspiration for “Nutcracker Rouge” but infuses it with sex, burlesque, circus and baroque, all with a feel of a French cabaret.
The show is a coming-of-age story that focuses on a demure Marie-Claire, a twist on Marie and Clara played by the breathtaking Laura Careless, who gradually finds her bliss, losing layers of clothes along the way. However, while the performance is sexually laden, the piece mostly focuses on Marie-Claire’s beautiful transformation into her own sexual liberation.
The piece focuses on striking a balance between original and innovation, with renditions of Madonna and Lana Del Ray sprinkled liberally throughout the program. Yet, his knowledge of the Nutcracker Suite shines through.
McCormick created “Nutcracker Rouge” in 2009 and since then, it has become an uptown must-see, some preferring it over the sticky sweet sentiment of the original. The show was only meant to run until Jan. 4 but has been extended through the end of the month. "Nutcracker Rouge" is staged at XIV in New York City. To purchase tickets, click here.
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