More than 20 years ago Anthony Williams envisioned a different kind of Nutcracker, one that would reflect Boston and celebrate diversity with dance. That vision has become the holiday tradition: "The Urban Nutcracker."
Williams is more than a choreographer, he's an alchemist. By mixing ballet, Bollywood dance, hip-hop and a holiday soundtrack starring Duke Ellington and Tchaikovsky, he’s created a contemporary classic that reflects our ever-changing culture. He and local drag artist Patty Bourrée will raise the curtain on this year’s season in the latest episode of The Culture Show, hosted by GBH Executive Arts Editor Jared Bowen.
From there, the holiday spirit continues. Turn up the volume for this commemoration of 50 years of Holiday Pops and their tradition of festive performances. WCRB’s Brian McCreath is here to talk about an upcoming concert collaboration between the classical station and the BSO.
Finally, Saudi Arabia is aglow. Noor Riyadh is the largest light festival in the world, and this year, Boston-based art curator Pedro Alonzo was the guiding light. He joins the show to talk about the experience working with the festival, alongside more art news.
It's all on The Culture Show. Listen to the full episode above for all the details.
