The Franklin Performing Arts Company (FPAC) will present The Nutcracker-Masked live streamed from THE BLACK BOX on December 12 and 13. The classic holiday ballet will be presented with a small cast of Ballet Conservatory dancers from the Franklin School for the Performing Arts all in masks and socially-distanced, with narration, live at THE BLACK BOX to a virtual audience at home. Under the direction of Cheryl Madeux, former dancer with American Ballet Theatre and current FSPA Ballet Director, the Franklin Performing Arts Company has found a safe way to present this holiday tradition for the region. Even during a holiday season where traditions will look a bit different, FPAC’s The Nutcracker remains a holiday staple for audiences and dancers alike. Hannah Rezendes, this year dancing the role of the Snow Queen, has grown up dancing on the FPAC stage, debuting at age 3 alongside her twin sister Madison in the ballet’s prologue, wheeled on stage in a carriage pushed by their dad, Guy Rezendes. For the next three years, the twin sisters were bunnies and Guy a party parent in the festive party scene that opens the first act. Their mom, Kim Rezendes, and Papa Crowley shared that stage, too. Hannah, a Ballet Conservatory student at the Franklin School for the Performing Arts, then danced her way up to the coveted role of Clara, and is now taking on the challenge of the Snow Queen which she describes as “a dream come true.” “There is something so special and nostalgic about the snow scene,” says Rezendes. “I grew up in the wings of the theater watching older ballerinas dancing the roles I aspired to, so it seems so full circle that I have finally made it to their place.” The masked production will feature Merrie Whitney’s stunning costume design accompanied by facial coverings. The production will continue FPAC’s collaboration with Franklin TV who will help bring the magic of the season to the audiences at home. Since first teaming up last holiday season for the world premiere of Christopher Rice’s The Tappy Christmas Special: LIVE!, Franklin TV Executive Director Peter Fasciano has been “all in.” FPAC Director Raye Lynn Mercer comments, “We’re very fortunate to have an ongoing collaboration with Franklin TV. They are making it possible for us to continue this holiday tradition even when our audiences cannot gather together as we typically do.” For tickets and more information, visit www.FPAConline.com or call (508) 528-3370.