'Nutcracker': A family tradition

Isabelle Cipriani danced as Clara in the Peninsula Ballet's production of "Nutcracker” in 2006.

Also on stage during that performance was her younger sister, Sophia Cipriani, portraying a sheep in the Mother Goose scene near the end of the two-act performance.

"It was always a dream to play Clara,” said 12-year-old Sophia Cipriani, who always looked up to her sister.

This year, the younger Cipriani had the opportunity to live that dream. She's playing Clara in this year's presentation of "Nutcracker,” which concludes with two shows this weekend.

The passing of the nutcracker started 15 years ago when the Ciprianis saw a flier for the production, explained Jeannine Cipriani, mother of the girls.

At the time, Isabelle Cipriani, now 19 and a sophomore at the University of California at Riverside, was 4 and in dance.

"I had no idea how it would evolve,” Jeannine Cipriani said.

She started as a parent volunteer, helping with the general production requirements. Her responsibility has now grown to become the Peninsula Ballet Theatre's boutique manager. She has been responsible for organizing and managing the installation of a year-round boutique at PBT's headquarters in San Mateo as well as continuing the theater boutiques that accompany each production.

Dad Randy Cipriani also helps out with creating props for productions, special displays for merchandise and anything else requested.

With Isabelle Cipriani doing well in dance, the family decided to enroll Sophia Cipriani to see if she also enjoyed it. Both girls found something they love.

Isabelle Cipriani, who joined the dance team at school, enjoys that dance is a great way to express herself and also a chance to unwind after at the end of the day.

Sophia Cipriani, a seventh grade student at Our Lady of Mount Carmel in Redwood City, agreed. Landing the role of Clara was a surprise for the younger sister, one she couldn't wait to share with her.

The family has been involved with each production of "Nutcracker” since 1997. For Jeannine Cipriani, it's more than just a way to support her daughters.

"We value each and every one of our Nutcracker families,” said Company Manager Sharon Torrano. "We have several siblings performing together and many of our families return year after year. We also have parents who have remained dedicated volunteers long after their children have left for college and pursued other careers. We already have second generation students.”

Peninsula Ballet's 42nd production of "Nutcracker” 4 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 22 and 2 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 22 at the Fox Theatre, 2215 Broadway, Redwood City. Tickets range from $30 to $60. For more information and tickets visit peninsulaballet.org.

Heather Murtagh can be reached by email: heather@smdailyjournal.com or by phone: (650) 344-5200 ext. 105.