Twelve-year-old Elanor Murphy, of New Canaan, is performing in the New York City Ballet's legendary production of "The Nutcracker" at the David H. Koch Theater at Lincoln Center, a show that draws thousands of families each year and more than 100,000 audience members throughout the season.

New York

Eleanor Murphy, a 12-year-old seventh grader from New Canaan, Connecticut, is starring as Marie in the New York City Ballet's renowned production of 'The Nutcracker' at Lincoln Center. Murphy, who trains at the School of American Ballet, was selected for the coveted role despite not coming from a ballet family or having foundation backing.

Murphy first saw the ballet at age two and a half and now fulfills her dream by performing before more than 100,000 people this season. The production runs through January 3rd at the David H. Koch Theater, drawing thousands of families each year.

Connecticut 7th grader takes center stage in NYC Ballet's 'Nutcracker'

A 7th grader from the Tri-State is taking center stage this holiday season, starring as Marie in one of the most iconic productions in the country. News 12's Angelica Turuno takes us to Lincoln Center, where a young dancer's dream is coming true. Right here at the David H. Koch Theater is where thousands of families come every year to watch the magic of the Nutcracker. And this season, it's a young Connecticut dancer that is bringing that magic to life. At Lincoln Center, holiday magic is already alive, and at the heart of it, this 12-year-old from New Canaan. Eleanor Murphy was just two and a half years old when she first saw the New York City Ballet's Nutcracker. She didn't want to leave the theater, and now she doesn't have to. I play Marie, also known as Clara. Starring as Marie, the little girl who receives the Nutcracker on Christmas Eve in the New York City Ballet's legendary production. Happy. I was jumping off of my seat. I was so excited because my mom FaceTimed me. Eleanor is anything but the stereotype of a rising ballet star. She's not from a powerhouse ballet family, not royalty, not backed by a foundation. She's a public school kid chasing a passion and working her way right to the top. When I'm on stage, I can really have fun and enjoy the moment. She trains with the School of American Ballet, the most prestigious program in the country, and has earned one of the most coveted youth roles in American dance. I obviously have some nervous points, but overall, I just think it's great to show everyone what you love. A role she once watched wide-eyed from the audience, and now performing in front of more than 100,000 people this season. The Nutcracker runs through January 3rd at Lincoln Center. In New York City, I'm Angele Picciuto, News 12.

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