The Oswego Players’ 2026 Christmas show “The Nutcracker” features music from Tchaikovsky during the performance in addition to Christmas carols sung by the cast both pre-show and at intermission.
The play, adapted by June Walker Rogers and directed by Jennifer Hitchcock will be performed on Fridays, December 4th and 11th at 7:30pm, and on Saturdays and Sundays December 5th, 6th, 12th and 13th at 2pm. Tickets are $20 for adults and $15 for seniors/students and can be secured through oswegoplayers.org or by calling the box office on (315) 343-5138.
This much-loved tale features acting, dancing, and a sensory extravaganza on stage. Bestowing the Christmas spirit and the sense of community essential in any Oswego Players production are the Carols performed by cast and crew. Music director Katie Donovan has been coordinating the Carols ensemble for the Christmas show for a number of years now and feels it is a wonderful way to get into the Christmas Spirit. “It’s a heartwarming experience working with these kids,” she said. “It’s a highlight of my year.”
Donovan started singing in her church choir as a young girl and then took up violin. She has a master’s in music and teaches violin, viola, cello and bass. However, singing remains a passion for her. “Putting together the Christmas Carol selection for the Oswego Players has become a part of my annual ritual,” she said. “We have the favorites, but I also like to add in some new ones each year by asking the kids what carols they would like to perform. Without a doubt, the best part about doing this year after year is seeing the young ones develop and become more confident in themselves over time.”
Parker Nesbitt is one of these developing kids. She is a student at Fulton Junior High and has performed with the Oswego Players for a couple of years and loves being part of the Christmas show and Carol ensemble. “My favorite carol is ‘Silent Night’ because it is a bit harder to sing so we have to work to hit the notes right.,” she said. “I love dance, theatre, writing and sewing, but I’ve been singing since I could talk”. This is her favorite time of the year, and she can’t wait to showcase both the play and the singing to the community. “Come see us,” she said. “It will ensure you make it to Santa’s nice list!”
“The Nutcracker” is presented by special arrangement with The Dramatic Publishing Company of Woodstock, Illinois.
Under the direction of Katie Donovan (front), the Oswego Players’ “Nutcracker” choir rehearse -front (l to r): Molly Kane, Roslyn Walker, Adelyn Walker, Jana Lorenz, Ella King, Camilla Deghan, Charlotte Gilkey; rear (l to r) Michael Moss, Raylyn Abare, Abraham Patrick, Parker Nesbitt