Brandon Ballet Returns With 'The Nutcracker'
By LINDA CHION KENNEY for The Tampa Tribune


It's been a long road from baby mouse to Rat King.
But for Jennifer Bentson, the road has been paved with visions of sugarplum fairies dancing in her head -- and on stage.

This year, Bentson of River Hills, a freshman at Durant High School, will perform in her ninth `Nutcracker` with the Brandon Ballet, now in its 10th season.

Bentson, who over the years has danced 14 roles, has been in every one of the regional ballet company's nine `Nutcrackers,` starting at age 6 and grade one at Lithia Springs Elementary School.

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