Pennsylvania Ballet Presents Annual Holiday Spectacular, The Nutcracker

Celebrating the 53rd anniversary of George Balanchine's beloved version of this classic holiday tradition, Pennsylvania Ballet captivates audiences this season with 25 performances of The Nutcracker at the historic Academy of Music, December 14, 2007 through December 31, 2007. There are also many additional activities surrounding this annual extravaganza including special events, family-friendly parties, charitable opportunities and more.

The Performances: George Balanchine's The Nutcracker

Magnificent new sets by Peter Horne, 192 exquisitely lavish new costumes designed by Judanna Lynn, Tchaikovsky's endearing score, and Balanchine’s masterful choreography set the stage for the World Premiere production of George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker, presented by PNC.

For the 39th consecutive year, Pennsylvania Ballet lights up the stage of the Academy of Music with its extraordinary production of The Nutcracker. Set to Peter Ilych Tchaikovsky's magnificent score, Pennsylvania Ballet's production of The Nutcracker has become a beloved holiday tradition, attracting more than 50,000 people each year.

Based on the E.T.A. Hoffman tale “The Nutcracker and The Mouse King,” the story shares the adventures of Marie and her Prince as they battle the evil Mouse King and travel to The Land of the Sweets, where they are entertained by charming characters including the Sugarplum Fairy, Coffee and Tea, and Candy Cane. The dancing is a feast for the senses, with more than 80 performers, including over 40 dancers from Pennsylvania Ballet and dozens of local children. The Company is joined by the Philadelphia Boys Choir for the enchanting snow scene, as much a signature of this production as the majesty of the growing tree and the gliding sleigh boat.

Pennsylvania Ballet is one of the few companies nationwide licensed to present George Balanchine’s version of this century-old classic which was first presented by Balanchine’s company, New York City Ballet, in February 1954.

Performances of The Nutcracker are as follows:

• Friday, December 14 at 7:00 p.m.
• Saturday, December 15 at 11:00 a.m., 3:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m.
• Sunday, December 16 at noon and 4:00 p.m.
• Thursday, December 20 at 7:00 p.m.
• Friday, December 21 at 7:00 p.m.
• Saturday, December 22 at 11:00 a.m., 3:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m.
• Sunday, December 23 at noon and 4:00 p.m.
• Monday, December 24 at noon
• Wednesday, December 26 at 2:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m.
• Thursday, December 27 at noon & 4:00 p.m.
• Friday, December 28 at 2:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m.
• Saturday, December 29 at noon and 4:00 p.m.
• Sunday, December 30 at noon and 4:00 p.m.
• Monday, December 31 at noon

Ticket prices for The Nutcracker start at $22 and can be purchased by calling TicketPhiladelphia at 215-893-1999 or by visiting www.paballet.org. Groups of 10 or more can purchase discounted tickets by calling 215-587-6921.

Pennsylvania Ballet's Special Holiday Events And Appearances

Macy's Window and Sugarplum Fairy Appearance
December 1, 2007 - January 2, 2008
While enjoying the decorated city sidewalks this holiday season, stop by Pennsylvania Ballet’s window display at Macy’s Center City, on the Juniper Street side facing City Hall.

Saturday, December 8 from 8:00 - 10:00 a.m.
One of the most beloved characters from The Nutcracker, the Sugarplum Fairy joins jolly ole’ Santa Claus at Macy’s for its annual breakfast with Santa. For more information and reservations, call 215-241-9000.

Readings of The Nutcracker at Borders® Books & Music
Saturday, December 8 at 11:00 a.m.; Springfield
Sunday, December 9 at Noon; Wynnewood
Join Susan Jeffers, a celebrated illustrator of children’s books, at these area Borders’ locations for readings and signings of her new book, The Nutcracker. This gorgeous storybook shares the timeless tale of Marie and her Prince through exquisite drawings based on the ballet.

Next Page > More Special Holiday Events and Fun Nutcracker Facts