Chestertown, MD — The Carole Cascio Fund successfully brought holiday magic to the Eastern Shore community with a free performance of Ballet Theatre of Maryland’s The Nutcracker on Friday, December 5, 2025, at the Kent County Family YMCA.
The Theatre of Maryland Ballet, known for its superb technique and captivating performances, brought Tchaikovsky’s enchanting score and familiar story to life with exquisite costumes and choreography. The attendees were transported to a world of toy soldiers, the Snow Queen, and the Sugar Plum Fairy in a high-quality production right in their own neighborhood at the YMCA.
“We believe that the arts enrich lives and bring communities closer,” said Peter Pucci Executive Director of the Carole Cascio Fund. “Sponsoring ‘The Nutcracker’ performance, especially during the holiday season, was a perfect way to give back to the community and share the beauty of the Theatre of Maryland Ballet (BTM) with a wider audience.”
The one-hour performance was a festive highlight for families, the local community and dance enthusiasts, offering professional-level ballet accessibility to all. The event was attended by 300 people in the YMCA’s gymnasium and it was a lively and fun evening. This free presentation was a key part of the Fund’s efforts to ensure that high-quality artistic experiences are not limited by cost. The CCF team worked closely with the YMCA’s Executive Director, Erica Osterhout, Rachel Carter and the YMCA staff to coordinate and set up the stage for the BTM’s 40 dancers.
The Carole Cascio Fund is dedicated to supporting developing artistry in young people and connecting individuals to the power of dance. The performance by BTM is one of the many community outreach initiatives sponsored by the Fund to support dance education and accessibility on the Eastern Shore. This was the first free public performance by a professional dance company that CCF has sponsored in Chestertown. CCF and the dancers received an enthusiastic response from the local community!
