Malverne Ballerina to Perform Lead Role in 'The Nutcracker'

Malverne's Amanda Sommers will be in the spotlight this month as she performs the lead role of the Sugar Plum Fairy in Sacred Heart Academy's fall performance of The Nutcracker.

Sommers is a graduate of Our Lady of Lourdes, a senior at Sacred Heart Academy and president of the SHA Dance Theatre. She has been learning the art of dance for more than 14 years at Tap To Pointe Studios in Malverne, under the direction of Miss Sara DeGennaro.

 “It’s a great honor to be selected for the role and a dream come true," said Sommers, who is looking to earn a B.F.A. degree in Dance at a top university and is committed to a professional future as a dancer. 

"Ever since 2003 when Miss Sara asked me to perform as a Child in the Party Scene and as an Angel in the Land of Sweets Scene, I’ve been dreaming of one day dancing as the Sugar Plum Fairy," she said. "That day has now become a reality.” 

In addition to Tap To Pointe, Sommers training has included some of the premier New York ballet companies in their summer programs. She’s danced at the American Academy of Ballet and for the past three summers she’s had the opportunity to dance in New York City at the Joffrey Ballet School in their Summer Intensive program.  

“Beginning right here in Malverne, over the years I’ve been exposed to rigorous and exciting dance programs," she said. "I’ve danced with and been taught by master teachers who have given me instruction in professional settings while challenging me to reach the peak of my potential.”  

Performances will be held on Friday, Nov. 22 at 7 p.m., Saturday, Nov. 23 at 7 p.m. ad Sunday, Nov. 24 at 2 p.m. at Sacred Heart Academy, located at 35 Cathedral Ave. in Hempstead. 

Tickets for the Nutcracker performances are $10 in advance and $15 at the door. Call (516) 483-7383 for more information.