It
is the day before Christmas and the dream of dreams comes
true… this will be a white Christmas! The snowflakes are falling
… gently, quietly… everything is gradually covered with beautiful
white snow. (fig.1
Set of first scene)
The
magic of Christmas begins as the snowflakes become Snow Maidens
… these beautiful Snow Fairies dance about the stage like
snowflakes dancing in the wind.(fig.2
Dance of Snowflakes; 1st act)
Christmastime
is celebrated with a beautiful Christmas tree, whitened by
snowflakes, with lovely gifts and magnificent decorations.
(fig.3 set of seventh scene)
At
Marie’s home, the Stahlbaums have erected their Christmas
tree, too. It is not white, however, because it is indoors,
but it is magnificently decorated with lots of toys and presents
for Marie and her brother, Fritz. As on a typical Christmas
eve, everything is in place awaiting the arrival of the special
friends who will bring gifts for the Stahlbaum children. (fig.4 Set of
4th scene)
For
some reason the Christmas tree has a military look about it.
Under the tree is a toy soldier’s riding horse, a military
bugle and drum, and a mysterious clock built by the toy maker
and magician Uncle Drosselmeier. Soon Uncle Drosselmeier will
come with the most fascinating toys.(fig.5 set of 2nd
scene)
