North Pointe Ballet's *The Nutcracker*: Delights by Design https://www.clevelandcurtaincurmudgeon.com/reviews/dance/ "Another added treat was how the Mouse King’s death was handled. It was staged with theatrical savvy: clear, readable stage combat, but also a palpable sense for the students’ experience - physically and emotionally. The cherry on top was seeing a few Little Mice appear from stage left while crying and waving goodbye with little handkerchiefs. I mean... come on. That’s exactly the kind of kid-friendly theatrical joke that lands for everyone. It was funny and cute plus added a layer of depth without becoming grim."