Olmsted Performing Arts' Toy Drive Kicks Off Today

Olmsted Performing Arts (OPA) in Olmsted Falls will present "The Nutcracker," Tchaikovsky's most famous ballet, once again this December. The production is being sponsored, in part, by Ohio Guidestone - http://ohioguidestone.org - and from now until December 18, everyone can donate a toy to make the lives of area families served by Ohio Guidestone a bit happier this Christmas.

Ohio Guidestone, based in Berea, Ohio, is a community solutions organization that offers behavioral health services, skill building programs and prevention opportunities for children and families. Beginning today, November 23, if anyone brings a a new toy to the OPA box office during regular business hours, or one hour before show time Dec, 18, they will get a $5 discount on a ticket to the Dec. 18 performance of "The Nutcracker."

"We are so thankful for the generosity of Olmsted Performing Art," says Debora Gault, Director of Foster Vare at Ohio Guidestone. "Most of the children served at Ohio Guidestone have suffered traumatic events in their lives, and many have never experienced a real Christmas. Giving these toys to our kids will bring them happiness, joy and cheerfulness and will truly make this Christmas a magical one!"

Ohio Guidestone is part of the Foster Family-Based Treatment Association and the Adoption Network, it is licensed by the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services and the Ohio Department of Health, and is accredited for donations through the Better Business Bureau.

"The Nutcracker" - at OPA Dec. 18 - 20 - is a tale that follows the young Clara to gorgeous lands of Ice and Snow and Sweets. Clara meets a Nutcracker prince, an evil Mouse Kind and a Sugar Plum Fairy, among others. There are epic battles, beautiful dances, incredible displays of heartwarming joy and the inescapable feeling that you have witnessed a holiday classic that has made audiences smile for generations.

A Christmas time tradition at OPA, "The Nutcracker" is being directed once again by OPA dance instructor, Elyria native, and former member of the St. Louis Ballet, Janet Strukely-Dziak. "The Nutcracker" cast is around 100 members, and features professional dancers, actors and students.

"Nutcracker is always such a magical experience for families during the holidays," says Strukely-Dziak. "I want the audience to be left in awe of the spectacle of the theater along with the impressive technical feats of professional classical ballet, and really feel like they are part of Clara's dream."

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