Local student performs in 'The Nutcracker'

VERNON — Delaney Mackey, an 11-year-old dance student at Simply Dance in Vernon, will perform in "The Nutcracker" ballet at the Berrie Center at Ramapo College on Dec. 6 and 7.

"The Nutcracker" is under the direction of Konstantin and Arina Kolotov at their studio, Kolotov Dance Studio in Ho-Ho-Kus Konstantin and Arina also are the primary ballet teachers at Simply Dance. Mackey holds the roles of head soldier, a Waltz of the Flowers performer, and performs a duet as a Russian Dancer. She will appear in all 3 performances.

This is Mackey's second year performing in 'The Nutcracker.' In December 2012, she performed as a Polichinelle with a solo part in the N.J.School of Ballet's "The Nutcracker" at the MPAC theater in Morristown.

Mackey has danced at Simply Dance under the direction of Danielle Seidner since she was 2 years old. She takes ballet, pointe, lyrical, tap, jazz, modern and gymnastics. Mackey also is part of Simply Dance's competition team. This winter will be her sixth season competing. Mackey competes in jazz and lyrical in a variety of groups, duet/trios and solos. She is in sixth grade at Lounsberry Hollow school, where she also participates in choir, volleyball and skiing.

For tickets to see "The Nutcracker" at Ramapo College, call Kolotov Dance Studio at 201-444-3223.

Simply Dance offers classes in tap, jazz, ballet, pointe, lyrical, modern, hip hop and tumbling. Classes are available for all ages and levels. Call 973-764-5150 or visit their website at www.simplydanceonline.com for information, class schedules and pricing.