Princess Lockerooo’s The Nutwaacker Shines at Guggenheim Museum Review
Princess Lockerooo’s The NutWAACKer made its debut at the Guggenheim Museum on December 12, 2025. This unique rendition of the classic holiday tale merges traditional storytelling with street dance, emphasizing the importance of inclusivity in the arts.
The Performance and Its Impact
The production, commissioned by Works & Process, introduces audiences to waacking, a dance style originating from queer Black and Latinx communities. Many attendees experienced waacking for the first time, showcasing its cultural significance.
Under the guidance of Princess Lockerooo, whose real name is Samara Cohen-O’Neal, The NutWAACKer advocates for the artistic and cultural responsibility of elevating street dance. Lockerooo aims to preserve waacking as a profound and dynamic form of expression.
Key Performers
- Tomoe “Beasty” Carr as Clara/Clarence
- Tytus Larue James Gibson-Jackson as Drosselmeyer
- Aché Richardson as Sugar Plum Daddy
- Baby Byrne as Pigeon Queen/Mother
- Michael “Nebz” Narine as Rat King/Father
- Cesar De Assis as The Nutwaacker
- Eva Schmidt as Christmas Eve
- Alice Castro as Waack Frost/Clara Understudy
Artistic Themes
The NutWAACKer explores themes of identity and belonging. The character Clarence navigates family expectations and personal discovery, reflecting a contemporary struggle for self-acceptance. The narrative highlights the joys and challenges of finding one’s place within a community.
The performance features diverse dance styles, from fierce and precise movements embodied by the Rat King to the whimsical flair of Christmas Eve’s campy routines. Each character is distinct, adding depth to Clarence’s journey through New York City.
Cultural Significance
This production goes beyond entertainment; it serves as a celebration of authenticity and personal truth. The closing dance battle between Clarence and the Rat King particularly emphasizes the theme of choosing joy amidst adversity.
New York City itself is portrayed as a vibrant character, representing the melting pot of cultures and identities that define the city. Audiences are invited to reflect on their connections to the community, reinforcing the narrative that identity is shaped through shared experiences.
A Call to Continue This Journey
Princess Lockerooo’s The NutWAACKer deserves to resonate far beyond its initial performance. The well-crafted storyline, original music, and captivating choreography have the potential to uplift and educate audiences.
As the finale unfolded, the audience erupted in applause, embodying the spirit of the production. With the right support, this performance can evolve into a cherished holiday classic that inspires and encourages conversations around identity, art, and community.
For more information on upcoming productions and insights into Princess Lockerooo’s work, visit El-Balad.
