A ballet company in Oklahoma has created a beautiful and lasting legacy for a terminally ill young girl, ensuring her dream of performing lives on for years to come.
A Dream Realised Against the Odds
In 2022, Olivia Francis, then aged 12, saw her lifelong wish come true when she performed in the Oklahoma City Ballet's production of The Nutcracker. This was achieved despite her diagnosis of Friedreich's ataxia, a rare and terminal neurological condition that affects coordination and mobility, making walking impossible for Olivia. She was diagnosed in 2020.
Her dream was first scribbled in a notebook when she was in first grade. The company delivered the incredible news that she would join the performance on her birthday, making the moment even more special. Olivia made her sensational debut on December 10, 2022, and performed through to December 18.
During the show, clips captured Olivia using her arms to participate in the choreography while fellow actors moved her wheelchair in time with the dance. She played the role of Clara's sister, Marie. Racheal Nye, the school director, noted that when Olivia danced, "everyone just has their eyes on her."
A Permanent Legacy Named 'Olivia'
The story did not end with her performance. Inspired by Olivia's determination and spirit, Ryan Jolicoeur-Nye, the artistic director, created a new, permanent character in the ballet in her honour. "When Olivia could no longer do it, I wanted to make sure we had a seat open for any child who had a dream to be on stage but couldn’t," he explained.
On December 12 of this year, during an "amazing night" where she dined and watched the show, Olivia discovered this incredible tribute. Her mother, Mary, shared the news online, writing: "Olivia found out they will have a permanent part in The Nutcracker, 'Olivia or Oliver,' depending on who is playing the part."
This season, the role has already been brought to life by three young performers from Oklahoma Children’s OU Health: Juliana Creamer on December 20, Malaysia Jenkins on December 21, and Whitley White on December 22.
Community Engagement and Lasting Inspiration
The initiative is part of a broader community programme. Before the performances, dancers visited the young stars at the hospital to read holiday stories and practice stretches. Erica Portell, Director of Community Engagement, said, "The Nutcracker really is a ballet for kids and families... We are so excited that some of the child dancers are patients right here at Oklahoma Children’s."
For Olivia's mother, Mary, watching her daughter on stage was profoundly moving. Olivia herself reflected that while the role wasn't exactly how she envisioned it, she was "really grateful," and the best part was making friends. Her presence "inspired everyone" involved in the production.
Friedreich's ataxia, which damages the spinal cord and cerebellum, currently has no cure. Yet, through the compassion and creativity of the Oklahoma City Ballet, Olivia Francis's dream has been transformed into an enduring gift for other children, proving the powerful, lasting impact of art and community.
