Libertyville dancer takes lead in Dancenter North's 'Nutcracker'

CHICAGO -- Priyana Acharya, 15, is ballet dancer from Libertyville who has been dancing since she was two years old. She will dance the lead role of "American Beauty Rose" in Dancenter North's "The Magic of the Nutcracker."

Priyana has attended many summer intensive ballet programs, including Bolshoi Ballet Academy New York City, Bolshoi Ballet Academy Connecticut and the Milwaukee Ballet Pre-Professional program.

Most recently, she trained for the Youth American Grand Prix Chicago, which is the premiere dance competition for students. She placed in the Top 24 in her category.

When asked what she loves most about ballet, she said, "I love that you are always striving for perfection. It comes with a lot of obstacles. The end goal is perfection. Nothing you can do is going to be perfect; but there is always a sense of accomplishment at the end."

For tickets to see Dancenter North's "The Magic of the Nutcracker," visit www.dancenter-north.com.