UNE student performs lead role in Maine State Ballet’s ‘The Nutcracker’

Julia Lopez (Medical Biology, ’21) recently made her debut as the Sugar Plum Fairy in this year’s production of the holiday classic The Nutcracker performed by the Maine State Ballet.

Julia has literally been part of the Maine State Ballet since she was an infant.

“I was 6 months old when I was carried out on stage with antlers to be with the other reindeer,” she recalled.

Her involvement with the ballet has been a family affair.

“My sister danced there since she was three years old,” Julia explained. “My aunt danced there when she was younger, my Nana would help out sewing costumes and my mom was a stage manager.”

Her credits include Mercedes in Don Quixote, Slumber Fairy in Hansel and Gretel, the Fairy of the Crystal Fountain in Sleeping Beauty and Dew Drop Fairy in The Nutcracker.

Julia’s performances as the Sugar Plum Fairy wrapped up at Merrill Auditorium in Portland in early December.

With performances, rehearsals and classes at UNE, it’s been a very difficult balancing act for Julia, to say the least.

“I don't even know how I did it, honestly,” she confided. “I remember starting rehearsals in September, so this entire semester has been filled with balancing school and dancing. I’ve always just been someone who is good at organizing and prioritizing my time.”

The Nutcracker is a holiday tradition that helps get the audience in a festive mood. Now that Julia’s busy schedule is behind her, she’s ready to get in the holiday spirit.

“I think we were all so drained by the end of it,” she said. “Now that I'm officially done with finals and The Nutcracker, I’m excited to decorate my Christmas tree and spend time baking Christmas goodies.”

After a short break Julia will return to the Maine State Ballet’s home theater in Falmouth in January for a performance of Tap, Tap, Jazz, an evening of Broadway style song and dance routines.

Her sights will then be set on another classic ballet, Cinderella, in March.