Professor Paul Mokovak as Grandpa in "The Nutcracker" (photo by Gene Witkowski).
Department of Theatre and Dance Professor Paul Mockovak has been invited to play the role of Drosselmeyer for the 10th anniversary performances of “The Nutcracker” at Shea’s Performing Arts Center.
The ballet, with Neglia Ballet Artists and the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra, will run Dec. 22 and 23. Professor Mockovak previously performed with Neglia Ballet Artists at Shea's with the orchestra in the pit for 12 performances, including nine as the role of Grandpa in “The Nutcracker,” and also in “Romeo and Juliet” and “Giselle.” Last year, on two days’ notice, he stepped into the role of Drosselmeyer and is happy to revisit the role.
Mockovak also reports a good Fredonia connection not only with himself, but current senior B.F.A. Acting major Nico Neglia, who will be stepping in as Grandpa, and additional cast member Morgan Brown, a senior Environmental Science major, as a Party parent.
