Dance Mojave formed in part because of the desire to re-create the holiday tradition with a High Desert twist with “The Desert Nutcracker.” Performed at the Joshua Tree Retreat Center Sanctuary, the original full-length production featured more than 60 local dancers of all ages.

The reimagined tale swaps snowflakes for sandstorms and introduces desert-inspired characters like park rangers, hikers, coyotes, quail, rattlesnakes, and roadrunners.

Choreography came from a team of local artists, including Ella Crowe, Melissa Daniels, Jenn Henry, Barbara Koch, Rebecca Plevin, Lauren Slivosky, Nicole Tarro, Alex Valdivia, and Eva Vargas.

The community-driven production reflects the unique spirit of the High Desert. Local artist Zach J.F .Boyles created a custom mural set piece, and donations from area businesses helped make participation free for cast members ranging from age three to 63.