Action News Jax’s Chandler Morgan steps into storyteller role for Community Nutcracker

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — The Community Nutcracker kicked off Thursday night with a “community night” at The Florida Theatre, and Action News Jax’s Chandler Morgan got to step into the storyteller role, which begins each performance.

Morgan was fitted into a Victorian-era costume for the Nutcracker and read the story surrounded by children who joined her on stage from the audience.

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What makes this Nutcracker performance unique is that it pulls dancers from all over Jacksonville — all ages, all walks of life — all talents and the proceeds benefit a great cause.

Thursday night’s “community night” benefits Dreams Come True, a local organization that grants dreams to First Coast children battling a life-threatening illness.

“Dreamer” Lilly was able to spend time with the performers and be recognized on stage.

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Approximately 60,000 students from area schools; 36,000 clients and patients of local nonprofit, community service organizations; and nearly 182,400 guests of all ages have attended performances of Community Nutcracker since 1992.

Community Nutcracker has evolved into a treasured holiday tradition in Northeast Florida. More than 200 local performers are involved to produce an artistic masterpiece that embodies the act of giving during the holidays, while bringing the community together in a whimsical, imaginative Christmas celebration of elegant dance and storytelling.

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