Montreal father-daughter duo cast in The Nutcracker
Andrew Giday has been performing in The Nutcracker in Montreal for more than 50 years. But this year's show will be more memorable than the others because one of the newest cast members is none other than his daughter.
"Really happy to share the experience with my daughter," said Giday, who plays the King of Sweets.
Seven-year-old Gemma plays one of the mice. She's been preparing for the role since September when she got the part.
"She was very enthusiastic at the audition, so we were hoping for the best," said Giday.
He was also seven years old when he performed in The Nutcracker for the first time.
"It's her adventure that's starting," he said. "I'm kind of passing the baton on to her in a way."
Despite not being on the stage with his daughter at the same time, Giday makes sure to catch a glimpse of her in action.
"I'm standing in the wings watching her go on stage and watching her exit and cheering her on."
The Nutcracker is celebrating its 60th year at Les Grands Ballets Canadiens, and the show runs until December 30th.
"I hope she has fun with it," says Giday. "I remember as a child, it was a lot of fun."
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