Chandler Metcalf and his service dog, Bernice, make The Nutcracker their tradition, too!

The Nutcracker has been a holiday tradition in our family from even before our son Chandler was born. This year is Chandler's 9th year performing in the Sacramento Ballet 'Nutcracker'. I know there  are dancers who have been around as long or longer than our son, but our son has cerebral palsy and uses a walker to ambulate.

It was, and is, the vision, empathy, and insight of Ron Cunningham that created a role for a child in a wheelchair. Chandler isn't the only special needs child to have been embraced and included as part of the Nutcracker family. However, his inclusion has been a community gift for our family and the Nutcracker casts.

Last year Chandler received a service dog from Canine Companions for Independence. Bernice is a Lab Golden cross. When Ron saw Bernice he asked if she could join Chandler in the Prologue. This is Bernice's second season in the cast.

We are not sure if it was kismet or serendipity, but before moving to Sacramento my wife and I attended the Boston Ballet performance of The Nutcracker and watched Ron Cunningham strut as Dr. Drosselmeyer. We didn't know our paths were destined to cross so many years and so many miles away.

Sacramento is blessed to have found Ron and Carinne. They are not only talented artists, choreographers and teachers but remarkable ambassadors for whatever they embrace.  Our family joins others in congratulating Ron Cunningham on the occasion of his 25th anniversary with the Sacramento Ballet. Next year we can congratulate Carrine on her silver anniversary.

Sacramento is blessed by their vision and heart!

From: Geoff, Linda and Chandler Metcalf