Sycamore Middle Schooler is on her toes for Nutcracker Ballet

From her first breath Mary Berthelsen’s life journey was destined to be along the road less traveled. 

That’s because she and her brother Jackson started their lives by the side of FM 1826, when Mom Kristin gave birth in the front seat of their car. The twins were delivered by their Dad, Jeff, and their first glimpse of the world included two ambulances, three police and sheriff squad cars and a half-dozen emergency responders to their 9-1-1.

Now the 13-year-old twins excel as eighth graders at Sycamore Springs Middle School, not only in the classroom, but also in their individual passions—Jackson on the tennis court and Mary as a ballerina.

As a ballerina, this year marks Mary’s eighth appearance in the local production of “The Nutcracker Ballet.” She has studied dance for more than 10 years, beginning classes the month before her third birthday. 

“Because I was short,” she explained, “I was cast as a mouse in my first six ‘Nutcracker’ productions. Two years ago, I graduated into different roles -- because I finally grew taller.”

As a student at ONE Academy of Dance, Mary danced the role of Clara in “The Nutcracker” last year and was the Arabian princess in the summer production of “Cinderella.” For this year’s “Nutcracker,” she dances the role of the Christmas fairy and is understudy for the Snow Queen, a leading role in the ballet. She will perform Dec. 21st at 5 p.m. and Dec. 22nd at 2 p.m. at The Waldorf School Theatre.

“I have been raised in a Christian home,” the 13-year-old said, “so when we looked for a studio at the next level after my beginning classes, we wanted to find one with a firm Christian foundation. ONE Academy ticked all our boxes. It’s my home away from home and the instructors and dancers are my second family.

“I dance almost the entire year,” she continued, “including workshops and summer intensives. During the school year, I dance six days a week -- taking about 15 hours of class -- and on Saturdays, we’re in rehearsals anywhere from six to eight hours.”

Her Sundays are dedicated to her faith, family and homework. “In dance, we learn much more than dance,” Mary said. “We learn fitness, core strengthening, acting, choreography and most important of all, we learn time management, which is a necessity when you’re juggling class, rehearsals and schoolwork. We also learn the importance of good nutrition, adequate sleep and how to take care of ourselves.

“My friends understand that my social life is a low priority at this point. However, I love spending time with my family, whenever my schedule allows, and we all look forward to holidays so we can travel or camp out together.”

Family for Mary includes not just her twin and parents, but two older siblings. Mary’s older sister, Emma, graduated from Dripping Springs High School, and is in her junior year at Sam Houston State University majoring in education. Her older brother Walter is a senior at DSHS.

Although she’s undecided as to whether she will pursue a career in performance, dance therapy or teaching, Mary is definite about one thing: she will continue to dance as long as she can.

“It’s something I’ve trained to do almost all my life and something I want to do as often as opportunities allow,” she said. “I love to perform, although even the oldest dancers have butterflies until the curtain goes up. But once the ballet begins, you forget about being nervous and do what you’ve rehearsed 100 times. To me, it is not only thrilling but also the best fun ever. I can’t think of anything I would rather do. It’s hard work, but it’s my passion.” 

The young dancer also has learned the importance of giving back to the community and sharing her talent with others. “Every year we visit senior communities and assisted living centers, where we dance for the residents,” she said. “I love visiting and entertaining the senior citizens -- and they’re always great audiences.”

After “The Nutcracker,” Mary said she would be working to compete in the 2020 Youth America Grand Prix International Ballet Competition. “Like any sport, dance offers competitions at every level to give us some idea of how we measure up, plus we’ll have master classes with some of the best in ballet. I’m excited about competing,” she added.

More information about “The Nutcracker” performances in Dripping Springs, visit the ONE Academy Dance Studio’s website at http://www.oneartsaustin.com .