Rockville Centre ballet dancers are on their toes

Five students from the Rockville Centre school district — including two sisters — performed in the 2010 Eglevsky Ballet’s production of the “Nutcracker” at the Tilles Center on Dec. 18 and 19.

 In the top row of the photo at right which was taken backstage before the first performance, are Jade Sullivan, left, from South Side High School, who played the parts of “Chinese” and “Harlequin,” in her first year in the production; Danielle Aliotta, center, from SSHS and the L.I. High School for the Arts, who played the role of “Clara’s Grandmother” in her second appearance with the troupe; and at right, Melissa Marino, also from SSHS, who played the part of “Polly” and “Soldier,” in her fourth year in the “Nutcracker.”

 In the bottom row, from left, are Annie Bella, from Wilson Elementary School, in her first year in “Nutcracker” and Melissa Aliotta, also from Wilson, who played two parts — a “Cook” and a “Lamb” — in her second year with the Eglevsky Ballet.

“The Nutcracker has always been a highlight of the holiday season for me,” said Danielle Aliotta. “It’s was very exciting to be chosen as an actor in this production among professional artists since I’ve had so many opportunities to dance.”

 “I most looked forward to working with professional ballet dancers on stage,” said Jade Sullivan, echoing Danielle's enthusiasm at the opportunity to learn, first hand, from professionals.