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Successful “Nutcracker” Fundraiser Helps Underserved and Bullied Children

Summary: Fighting poor education standards and protecting human rights are the tasks of the Community Learning Center and Youth for Human Rights of Florida. Both got a boost at the December 4th performance of the Nutcracker Ballet, presented by the Guilfoil Ballet Theater.

CLEARWATER: On Sunday, December 4th, the auditorium of the Historic Fort Harrison was filled with ballet fans of all ages, there to see a performance of one of the most classic holiday traditions – the Nutcracker.

Produced by the Guilfoil Ballet Theater, and starring Jessica White as Clara and Maja Kikie as the Sugar Plum Fairy, this performance additionally raised funds for Youth for Human Rights of Tampa Bay and the Community Learning Center.

A classic ballet story that features a child standing up to defend a friend and rewards that can come from such an action, the Nutcracker is about young Clara, who is given a Nutcracker doll as a Christmas gift by the mysterious Herr Drosselmeyer. Clara helps to transform the Nutcracker into a Prince and as a reward, is taken to meet the Sugar Plum Fairy in the Land of Sweets.

Prior to the show, guests enjoyed a “Land of Sweets” buffet, created by the Gold-Medal winning chefs at the Fort Harrison. This included red velvet cupcakes, a hot chocolate bar, chocolate fountains and other treats.

Andrew Guilfoil, the Founder and Creative Director of the Guilfoil Ballet Theater, introduced the show and brought to the stage Holly Haggerty, the Executive Director of the Community Learning Center. She thanked the audience for their support and spoke about the Center.

The Community Learning Center uses a phonics-based reading program along with the Study Technology developed by humanitarian L. Ron Hubbard. This tutoring program regularly raises reading scores to grade level and above for the children in their care. The Center has helped over 10,000 children and families since its inception in 1998.

Mr. Guilfoil then introduced Dustin McGahee, the President of Youth for Human Rights of Florida, who spoke about the changes he has seen in himself and others in implementing this program.

Youth for Human Rights of Florida utilizes the documentary “What are Human Rights” and Public Service Announcements outlining the 30 rights due to all people as written and ratified by the United Nations – the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Where this campaign has been implemented in schools and with youth groups, participants see a decline in violence and bullying.

Then, to the delight of the audience, a full production of the Nutcracker Ballet followed. Following the show, the cast went into the audience and met their fans and family, signing autographs and taking photos.

Many guests had never been to the Fort Harrison and commented about the holiday décor and ambiance.

The Fort Harrison is owned by the Church of Scientology Flag Service Organization and is home to their international religious retreat. The Auditorium, Crystal Ballroom and Board Rooms are available to charity groups for their meetings and functions, free of charge.

For more information about the Guilfoil Ballet Theater, please go on line to www.guilfoilballettheater.com.

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