Episode 23 : The Magic of the Nutcracker Artwork

So THIS Happened...

“So THIS Happened…” is the podcast version of catching up with your most unfiltered friend over wine. Each week, Jen and Rachel dive into personal mishaps, past memories, local happenings, weird habits, and whatever else pops up — including the occasional celebrity headline we just have to talk about. It’s casual, it’s chaotic, and it’s all real.

All Episodes

So THIS Happened...

Episode 23 : The Magic of the Nutcracker

December 11, 2025 • Jen Cole and Rachel Chappelle • Season 1 • Episode 23

0:00 | 55:21

Send a text

In this special holiday episode, we sit down with Brent McNulty and Annika Wooten of Ballet Wichita to explore the magic, tradition, and behind-the-scenes wonder of their beloved annual production of The Nutcracker presented by Casper Family Foundation — running December 19–21 at Century II.

We dive into everything from:
🎄 Why The Nutcracker is a timeless holiday tradition
🎻 The power of Wichita’s live orchestra
🩰 What 120+ dancers (ages 5–75!) bring to the stage
🎭 Last-minute pivots, costume miracles, and backstage chaos
🌟 How ballet creates community, belonging, and unforgettable memories
Plus: inside details on upcoming productions, the story behind Annika’s growing-stage tears, Brent’s leadership magic, and Wichita’s need for ongoing arts support.

Use BW10 for 10% off Nutcracker tickets at balletwichita.com.
Cheers to holiday magic — we’ll see you at the ballet!

Notable Shoutouts

Ballet Wichita Academy — where dancers of all ages (yes, even adults!) can train in ballet, tap, jazz, and more. Find them on Instagram at @balletwichita and @balletwichitaacademy
Logan Pachciarz, Artistic Director & choreographer with deep industry connections
Katie Cohn, Company Director supporting dancer safety and artistic excellence
Jan, Ballet Wichita’s powerhouse costume creator
McPherson Opera House, home of the beautifully slanted 26-degree stage
Century II Performing Arts Center, the beloved home of The Nutcracker
Oliver’s — hosting Ballet Wichita’s glamorous Opening Night After Party
Douglas Event Solutions / Douglas Production Group — Brent’s day job and the reason the studio we recorded in looks iconic. Find them on Instagram at @wichitaeventrentals
Jesse Wooten, official hype husband and honorary So THIS Happened family member
Nathan, Jen’s son and theater kid who proves student matinees spark lifelong creativity
All Wichita arts supporters who show up, cheer loudly, and believe in the magic