On December 12, the curtains opened on the Company of Dance Art’s annual “ The Nutcracker” performance. “The Nutcracker” follows Clara and the Nutcracker Prince as they journey through a snowy forest and into the magical Land of Sweets. While in the Land of Sweets, they meet the Sugar Plum Fairy, who hosts a celebration in the visitors’ honor. The Sugar Plum Fairy is a principal, coveted role in the ballet world. For this year’s performance, Trinity Hall’s own Emma Markiewicz ‘27 transformed into the Sugar Plum Fairy– her second year in a row taking on the role.
Markiewicz’s dance career began at five years old, when she joined the Academy of Dance Arts. Since then, Markiewicz has successfully participated in the Youth American Grand Prix and has furthered her dance training at a variety of summer intensives. Her history with the show is extensive, as she has performed in “The Nutcracker” from a young age. Markiewicz has progressed through the roles of Clara, corps de ballet, soloists Arabian Coffee and Columbine Doll, and the principal role of Sugar Plum Fairy in 2024 and 2025.
The training for the Sugar Plum Fairy role was intense, and Markiewicz had long rehearsals multiple days a week. She would go straight from practicing the Pas de Deux with her dance partner to running the steps for her soloist pieces. The hard work paid off, as Markiewicz stepped on stage and performed her role gracefully with practiced precision, fully embodying the Sugar Plum Fairy. Hannah Pollak ‘27, one of Markiewicz’s friends who supported her at the show, exclaimed, “Her performance was inspiring, very beautiful; I was awestruck watching her!”
Along with several family members, friends, and Trinity Hall staff members, the Trinity Hall Dance Company was granted the opportunity to be in the audience for a performance of “The Nutcracker”. “It was such an amazing experience for the Dance Company, being able to watch a beautiful dancer like Emma perform,” stated Dance Company student leader, Aoife Oldroyd ‘27.
Congratulations on this breathtaking performance, Emma! The Trinity Hall Community is so proud of all the hard work and dedication you have put forth, and it is a joy to watch you shine.