It’s back and better than ever this year! Southwest Ballet Theatre’s seventh annual production of “The Nutcracker” is set for Dec. 16-19 at the Performing Arts Center at Estrella Mountain Community College (EMCC), 3000 N. Dysart Road, Avondale.
“This year, we have all new choreography designed especially for the dancers of Southwest Ballet Theatre,” said Tasha Stramecki, the ballet company’s artistic director. “And, in the past, we have had guest dancers perform the lead role, but this year, one of our graduating seniors who has been studying with us from the beginning will be performing her debut as the Sugar Plum Fairy. She has strong classical ballet technique and is a beautiful young ballerina, so to give her this opportunity is exciting and rewarding both for her and for the school.”
Another highlight this year is the addition of a select group of dancers from Grand Canyon University who will perform Stramecki’s newly choreographed “Snow Scene” and “Waltz of the Flowers.”
“It has been a real joy working with them on creating these beloved corps pieces that are an integral part of ‘The Nutcracker Ballet,’” she said.
Performances will take place at 7 p.m. Dec. 16, 17, and 18, and at 2 p.m. Dec. 19. Tickets are free for EMCC students, $18 for students 18 and younger, and $26 for general admission. All tickets, including free tickets, must be reserved online. To order your tickets, go to https://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/5239232.
“‘The Nutcracker’ is a family favorite, a tradition to kick off the holiday season,” Stramecki said. “It is the most performed ballet in the world because it is relatable. At the same time, it's a magical fantasy, bringing dreams to life, which inspires the heart.”
Seating is limited and masks will be required.