Christmas message comes alive in original dance

The second annual Littlest Angel production is a new family tradition. Inspired by Charles Tazewell’s story, the Academy of Dance Arts is proud to produce the original Christmas dance production of Littlest Angel for the second year at the Scottish Rite Cathedral, December 6 and 7. This year, ADA has added a third performance time so families, groups and supporters of the arts have more opportunities to enjoy this wonderful new holiday tradition. The first performance is Friday, December 6 at 7:00 pm, with two additional performances on Saturday, December 7 at 1:00 and 7:00 pm. Littlest Angel is the classic Christmas story of the youngest angel in heaven who doesn’t know how to fit in and misses her life on earth. After the Understanding Angel gives her a box of her treasures from home, she decides to selflessly give her beloved items to the newborn Christ child, learning the lesson of giving that is the true spirit of Christmas.

The original dance production was the dream of prima ballerina turned instructor and studio founder Sue Van Voorhis. Rebecca Jones, formerly of Dance Kaleidoscope, adapted the story for dance and she and Julie Van Voorhis Meyer choreographed the original performance to fulfill this dream. “We are thrilled to present our original dance production of Littlest Angel for the second year at the beautiful Scottish Rite Cathedral,” says Academy of Dance Arts owner and Van Voorhis’ daughter, Laurie Van Voorhis Brady. “We hope families will join us to share in the beauty of dance and the holiday spirit with our dancers.” The production features ADA ensemble dancers and students, ranging in ages from 5 to 18 years old, who will perform ballet and modern dances. There will be a silent auction on Friday, December 6 to raise money to help offset production costs.