Niles West High School was one of 17 Chicago-area high schools to participate in the second annual Nutcracker Wonderland project organized by the Village of Rosemont.  Niles West educators Dawn Zalkus, Deanna Sortino, John Zilewicz, and P.A. Ford worked with students to design and hand-paint a six-foot-tall Nutcracker statue.

 

The project showcased 25 custom Nutcracker pieces that were on display for a limited time at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont Theatre. The public art initiative supports the art community, raises awareness for local businesses, and helps a local charity. The Niles West Nutcracker was moved to Fat Rosie’s restaurant in Rosemont, a project sponsor.

 

The Village of Rosemont raised $20,000 from 2024 Nutcracker Wonderland sponsorships to benefit Salute, a local non-profit organization that supports injured military service members, veterans, and their families.