“Because dancing for film and in masks while distancing was all uncharted territory both for myself and for the dancers, I decided to keep it simple and just do Act II,” Seguin said. “I adapted and redid choreography to maintain distancing and avoid touching, and the dancers had to work harder than usual to build stamina in their masks.” Attendees who purchased tickets to view the performance in their vehicles ordered hot chocolate from their vehicles, which SCB company members and volunteers distributed to them. “I thought of a drive-in early on, because it would serve as an in-person event that easily and naturally allowed distancing,” Seguin said. “We added a virtual option to allow families and patrons who would rather stay in to watch from home.
Photography by Mike Ellis
“The drive-in was safe and festive, and the virtual option allowed friends and family from all over the world to view Salt Creek Ballet’s Nutcracker. “We pre-sold merchandise and prepackaged concessions, held a virtual silent auction and wrapped everything up as a fundraiser to help the organization recover from COVID-related impacts.” As we enter a new year, and various iterations of the Coronavirus vaccine are distributed, there is optimism that we will once again be able to convene for large gatherings in 2021.
Photography by Mike Ellis
But while the pandemic has created adversity for non-profit organizations in the community and beyond, it has also taught them how to pivot and restructure activities in the event that gathering restrictions persist or are imposed in the future. “We learned a lot,” Seguin said, “and felt so much gratitude for all the support we received, and for the opportunity to bring our dancers, families and patrons together safely during a tough time.”
Photography by Mike Ellis
HINSDALE MAGAZINE | HinsdaleMag.com
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