Rec Report: ‘The Nutcracker’ brings out the best in us

Details

What: “Davis Children’s Nutcracker” tickets go on sale to the public

When: 8 a.m. Wednesday

Where: City of Davis Community Services Office, 600 A St.

How much: $9.50 each, with a maximum of six available for each purchase

By Carrie Dyer

Every month, a member of the recreation staff is assigned to write the Rec Report. It is an opportunity to showcase recreation programs, and we often thrown in a few personal stories about our own involvement in recreation.

December is “my month,” which I feel lucky about as it is also a typical time of reflection. As I sit and ponder on all my years working for the city of Davis, there are many things that warm my heart, bring a smile to my face and make me treasure the opportunities that I am given to contribute to the community.

As odd as someone might think it is, one of my favorite days each year is the day tickets go on sale for the “Davis Children’s Nutcracker,” our popular holiday production starring 250 local children.

I arrive to work that day at 7:30 a.m. to prep for opening the doors at 8 a.m. I am always greeted by a line of parents wrapped in blankets with hot coffee in hand and Sally Hosley, no doubt, at the front, with her warm smile and annual greeting of, “It’s that time of year again.” Having three boys who have all walked the stage as the Nutcracker Prince, Sally’s a pro at navigating the process.

There are few places where people are in cheery moods while waiting in long lines. However, I am always amazed by the energy and enthusiasm with which people wait for their “Nutcracker” tickets. Even as the sold-out signs for specific shows are posted, there is general camaraderie and good spirit.

Perhaps it is the hot apple cider and treats that the office staff so lovingly puts out each year. Or it may be the genuine joy of the experience that the “Nutcracker” brings.

However, what I truly see is the good spirit and sense of community that is typical of this beloved town. People help each other out by exchanging tickets to meet the needs of grandparents only being available on certain days, they give up one or two of their precious six that they are allowed to buy at a time, and they hold places in line while a quick errand needs to be run.

As the duties have been passed along, this is the first year in many that I will not be at the front desk greeting all who pass through. On Wednesday morning, my co-workers will be welcoming everyone with their contagious smiles and holiday spirit. I will be the one with a pink box of doughnut holes to pass out, because I won’t be able to stay away.

— Carrie Dyer is a supervisor in the Community Services Division of the city of Davis.