Media Advisory: AISD's Interim Superintendent Stars as Mother Ginger in Ballet Austin's 'The Nutcracker'

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Perez Elementary School Principal to also take the stage

Interim Superintendent Paul Cruz and Perez Elementary School Principal David Kauffman will star on separate nights as Mother Ginger in Ballet Austin's performance of "The Nutcracker."

When: Cruz is scheduled to perform Friday, Dec. 12, at 7:30 p.m.

Kauffman is scheduled to perform Saturday, Dec. 13, at 2 p.m. 

Where: Long Center, 701 W. Riverside Drive

Background: One of the most memorable characters Clara encounters in the Sugar Plum Fairy's court is Mother Ginger, whose personality is as big as the skirt from which dozens of dancing "bon bons" appear in Act II. For almost two decades, Ballet Austin has honored celebrities, community leaders and local VIPs by casting them in this comical role.

This year, outstanding educators were invited to play the role including seven area principals and Interim Superintendent Paul Cruz. The educators were chosen by their school districts for this distinction and make up the core of this season's guest Mother Ginger cast. The late Gov. Ann Richards, Sen. Kirk Watson and Michael Dell have previously played this role.

Tickets for "The Nutcracker"range in price from $15 to $84.

For more information, contact Ballet Austin at 512-476-9151 or visitballetaustin.org.