A special visit to Ronald McDonald House

Last week, when eight-year-old River found out she would not be receiving a critical operation, Ronald McDonald House asked if there was anything she would like to see or do before going home.

“I’ve always wanted to see The Nutcracker.” River said.

Because she was too weak to actually go to The Nutcracker, Ballet West took the Sugar Plum Party to her. Principal Artist Christiana Bennett told the magical story of The Nutcracker and then showed River and some of her friends a few dance moves. As the Sugar Plum Fairy Variation played, Christiana invited River to dance with her – and she was a natural! Step-for-step she danced with beautiful pointe-work.

The next morning, Ronald McDonald House informed Ballet West that not only was River still talking about her whimsical night with “the dancing princess,” but she was wearing shoes that Christiana signed for her and even dancing!

We were all touched by sweet River and will not soon forget this special moment we were able to make a Christmas wish come true.