What is Christmas without a traditional German nutcracker on display, and of course watching the Tchaikovsky Nutcracker Ballet. And, if you’re lucky to have a local, live performance of the ballet, even better! My daughter and I were gifted German crafted nutcrackers when we each were young. There is something magical with the Nutcracker, maybe since I’m partial to ballet and dreams. The nutcracker itself, strong and grounded, turns into a prince and takes Clara on an imaginative journey, symbolizing our desire of wonder along with safety. The nutcracker is a simple and efficient tool, but designed with dignity and a glorious stance. At any given moment, the nutcracker can instantly open up that walnut, and magically break out into multiple pirouettes, lol.
Mimes, silent and masked, story tell through movement. When motionless, the mime appears deeply emotional and full of melancholy. But throughout history, mimes’ performances tell stories of mischief, happiness, comedy and all sorts of life ventures, including the tragedy. Without voice, communication can only be expressed by gestures. The mime possesses the art of elegant agility, symbolizing the days we feel, but cannot, or do not, desire to speak, yet go about our day.
For years I’ve set out these two historical icons at Christmas time. Combining the statuesque nutcracker and the fluid mime, a balance of stability and whimsicality is created. Something we all need in life.