'So You Think You Can Dance?' star appears in Escondido 'Nutcracker' production

By: PATRICIA MORRIS BUCKLEY - For the North County Times | Wednesday, December 19, 2007 11:32 AM PST ∞

"The Nutcracker" is one of those holiday experiences that many theatergoers have fond memories of. Dancer Danny Tidwell is no exception.

"I've been dancing in 'The Nutcracker' since I was 14," said the New York-based dancer, who will perform as a soloist in the San Elijo Dance and Music Academy's "Nutcracker" production opening Dec. 21 in Escondido. "I have such wonderful memories of doing it and being with my friends."

In the years since, Tidwell has gone on to become a household name due to his participation on the third season of television's "So You Think You Can Dance?" He came in second (as his adopted brother, Travis Wall, did in the second season).

Tidwell's dance career really started just to keep him out of trouble. He trained at Denise Wall's Dance Energy before studying classical ballet with Vladimir Djouloukhadze and Anatoli Kucheruk at the Kirov Academy in Washington, D.C. He's won a number of medals and awards for his ballet, as well as performing principal roles in original shows created by Debbi Allen. He also co-founded the dance magazine Movmnt.

So how did Tidwell come to be performing the role of the Russian in San Elijo's "Nutcracker"?

"I was casting the principals and one was Rasta Thomas," recalled Benjamin Houk, the San Marcos dance company's artistic director. (Other principals include Carrie Imler and Mara Vinson, both of the Pacific Northwest Ballet.) "Rasta's wife knows Danny because her sister is his dance partner. So we were able to work it out."

Houk pointed to Tidwell's well-known reputation for flawless technique as the reason that Tidwell was offered the role of the Russian. "He has huge, impeccable technique," he said. "And I know he will bring a lot of charisma to the part."

Tidwell's previous "Nutcracker" experience includes roles in the party scene, as well as the Chinese dance. For him, the real beauty of this classic ballet is in its music.

"The score is just beautiful," he said. "I especially like the Russian music. It's a high energy, character kind of role."

Playing a role like this is nothing compared with the energy it took to be on TV.

"That was a competition," he said, "so I was always a little nervous. Still, it was one of the best experiences of my life. I especially liked going on tour afterwards."

In addition to dancing, Tidwell has his sights set on acting, either onstage or film. His advice to other young dancers?

"Keep dancing," he said. "You just have to keep going."

"The Nutcracker"

When: 7 p.m. Dec. 21-22; 2 p.m. Dec. 22-23

Where: California Center for the Arts, Escondido, 340 N. Escondido Blvd., Escondido

Tickets: $18.50-$42; discounts for seniors and children under 12

Info: (800) 988-4253

Web: www.sdnutcracker.com

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