Magician Plays Key Role In Concert Ballet's `Nutcracker'

By ELIZABETH BEYRER
The Silk City Circuit

This year's production of "The Nutcracker" by the Connecticut Concert Ballet is enhanced by the performance of magician and Manchester resident Gary Gross in the role of Herr Drosselmeyer. Gross makes it snow, grows a candy cane and floats a wine glass in midair.

The "Nutcracker" is always a whimsical delight, and this production promises to be charmingly entertaining. Guest artists also include Eva Marie Pacheco and Michael Bolger, who dance with the Island Moving Company in Newport, and the Providence Ballet.

A Magic Touch In A Ballet Classic

By MATTHEW RAPHAEL
The Hartford Courant

MANCHESTER -- When he isn't flying around the world to meet with important clients, this Pratt & Whitney manager spends much of his time sawing people in half, turning handkerchiefs into wands and practicing the element of surprise.

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Gross will bring his magic to the stage performing in "The Nutcracker," the Connecticut Concert Ballet's production this weekend at Manchester High School. Gross will play Drosselmeyer, the eccentric toy maker and godfather to the main character, Clara.