Our hearts grow tender with childhood memories and love of kindred, and we are better throughout the year for having, in spirit, become a child again at Christmastime. —Laura Ingalls Wilder
The holidays just wouldn’t be the same without tradition, so in keeping with the customary spirit of the season, the Nevada Ballet Theatre once again brings its magical, sparkling performance of the classic Christmas story The Nutcracker to Reynolds Hall at The Smith Center for the Performing Arts.
Choreographer James Canfield’s celebrated adaptation of the fairy-tale ballet will come to life beginning this weekend, Dec. 9-10, and will continue running through Christmas Eve. Now in its sixth year, this fun-filled family production was created specifically for the Reynolds Hall stage.
Revealing the magical journey of Clara and her handsome Prince, guests will be whisked into an adventure filled with toy soldiers, mischievous rodents and visitors from faraway lands. This exhilarating production creates the perfect atmosphere to experience the awe-inspiring joy and magnificence of this heart-warming time of year.
Set to Tchaikovsky’s treasured score performed by a full orchestra (on select dates), the show is highlighted by extravagant sets, exquisite costuming and more than 60 dancers, amongst which are NBT’s professional company artists and 30 students from its affiliated Academy of Nevada Ballet Theatre. The Nutcracker transports audiences to a thrilling wonderland filled with waltzing flowers, nimble fairies and, yes, even snow.
And, with more performances than past years, finding time during your hectic holiday preparations to take in this larger-than-life production is more convenient than ever.
NBT also offers to all ticket holders a new, free bonus experience: The Nutcracker Wonderland, located inside the Troesh Theatre adjacent to Reynolds Hall. This glittering holiday walk-through experience, which opens an hour before showtime, will delight everyone as they wander through all its festive scenes. A special guest will drop in, too, to read the story of The Nutcracker to the children.
As an extra-special treat, following the Dec. 17 performance of The Nutcracker, guests have the opportunity to purchase an exclusive event add-on to their show ticket for the Sugarplum Party. Here you can meet Clara, The Nutcracker Prince and The Sugarplum Fairy, indulge in sweet treats, and receive a special souvenir photo. Tickets to the Sugarplum Party are limited, so purchase early if you wish to attend.
The Nutcracker showtimes are 7:30 p.m. Dec. 9, 15-16, 20-23 and 2 p.m. Dec. 10, 16-17, 23-24. Tickets prices range from $29 to $179; for groups of 10 or more, contact 702.243.2623 for information on priority seating, special discounts and exclusive experiences. Please note that no children under 3 years of age are admitted to the performances.
