DANCE

Close your eyes make a wish and open your heart. Experience the warmth of the holiday season when you see Festival Ballet’s production of The Nutcracker. The Nutcracker returns to the stage December 11 for the sixteenth annual performance of the holiday classic at the San Jacinto College South Fine Arts Center, with both evening and matinee performances.

This production features Tchaikovsky's beloved score, outstanding professional guest artists, talented members of Festival Ballet, as well as some of the most promising young dancers from across the Greater Houston area. The Nutcracker provides a performance opportunity for aspiring young dancers to appear on stage with professional costumes, lighting, and international Guest Artists.

You will enjoy the time-honored story by E.T.A. Hoffman of one very special night! You will thrill as every toy under the Christmas tree comes alive with all the splendor and merriment of the season! You will see magnificent costumes – spectacular sets – and falling snow that blankets a Nutcracker wonderland!

The Nutcracker is a fairy-tale story that never fails to enchant - from the Christmas tree that grows, spinning snowflakes and waltzing flowers, to the toy soldiers battling the Mouse King, and of course, the Nutcracker Prince, the Sugarplum Fairy and her dashing Cavalier. The Nutcracker fills the season with excitement, as it transforms the theater into a winter wonderland.

“It's a wonderful story that never grows old”, states Artistic Director Deborah Rayburn, “a beloved holiday tradition that touches the hearts of young and old alike”.

Area Dancers Make The Nutcracker Special -

This Nutcracker production is very special, as it will include some of the most promising young dancers from the greater Houston area. Open auditions were held in September across the Houston area. The opportunity to perform in a production of this scale is thrilling for the young dancers and an experience they will treasure.

Professional Guest Artists -

As always Festival Ballet’s Nutcracker features the best in professional Guest Artists and local area dancers. The Guest Artists for this production includes Ilya Kozadayev as the Sugar Caviler. Ilya appears courtesy of Houston Ballet.

Ticket Information - Affordable ticket prices and up-close seats make this Houston’s top pick for the ultimate children’s holiday experience as you stand next to a Sugar Plum, shake hands with The Mouse King and waltz with a Snowflake all happening preshow in the lobby!

Tickets may be purchased by phone at (832) 592-7360, or on line at www.festivalballethouston.org.

Pictured:  Festival Ballet dancer Sara with Ilya Kozadayev from The Nutcracker. Ilya Kozadayev appears courtesy of Houston Ballet.