Macon Magazine

30 maconmagazine.com | OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2021 A lice Sheridan described holding auditions for Tchaikovsky's "The Nutcracker" at the new Jean Evans Weaver Center for Dance as being "like a dream." Sheridan is artistic director of Nutcracker of Middle Georgia, which has presented the famed Christmas ballet in Macon since 1985. The Weaver Center, at 117 Orange St., is a 6,100-square-foot space that allows the organization to have permanent studios for auditions and rehearsals, dressing and fitting rooms, storage for costumes and props, as well as office space and other areas for use. It is named in honor of Jean Evans Weaver, who founded the production and was director until retiring in 2017 when Sheridan took over. LOCAL BUZZ NUTCRACKER OF MIDDLE GEORGIA DEBUTS NEW DANCE CENTER After initial renovation and installation of special flooring in two studio areas for dancer safety and comfort, the facility began its first official use in September when auditions were held for the annual "Nutcracker" performance. The local production utilizes area dancers, students and volunteers along with a half-dozen professional dancers. Aside from the studio areas, much of the rest of the building is still undergoing final renovation touches and is yet to be furnished. Regardless, Nutcracker staff, volunteers and young dancers were ecstatic to be part of the Weaver Center's first official activities. "The young people coming to auditions were very, very excited," Sheridan said. "Most of them have auditioned and been in 'The Nutcracker' before and realized what a big deal this year's auditions were. They were taking pictures of themselves, each other and the studios. There's just a new excitement about the space and, to me, it was like being in a dream myself — a dream come true. We're all excited." Nutcracker of Middle Georgia began a capital campaign last fall. Through donations and grants, they were able to obtain the Orange Street building debt- free for $145,000. The campaign now continues to fund more renovations, provide furnishings and occupancy and operating funds, according to the nonprofit organization's treasurer, Donna Williams. She said the initial goal was $280,000, of which $220,000 has been raised, but the group hopes to go beyond that goal by at least $100,000. "We see we need in excess of the original $280,000 and that's what we're working toward," she said. "But it's amazing we have a place, and our dancers — our own children and neighbors — are in there dancing now, practicing and preparing for what's become a cherished Christmas tradition and a treat for children and adults alike in Macon and all of Middle Georgia." In addition to its use to prepare for "The Nutcracker" each year and store sets, props and costumes, future plans are for the Weaver Center to develop outreach ballet programs for underserved youth ages 4 to 18 and students with disabilities. The center also will offer workshops and masterclasses in advanced, classical ballet. To date, the organization has presented the ballet every year since its beginning, except for last year due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This year, the organization's 36th, performances will be Dec. 8-12 at the Grand Opera House, the Nutcracker's performing home since 1986. Ticketing information is at midganutcracker.com along with how to donate toward the Jean Evans Weaver Center for Dance. — MICHAEL W. PANNELL Pictured: The new Jean Evans Weaver Center for Dance had special flooring installed for the comfort and safety of dancers.

• Cover