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With Willam Christensen’s historic choreography and Tchaikovsky’s timeless holiday score, see why this is the longest-running production in America. Ballet West returned to the Kennedy Center with The Nutcracker December 5–9, 2018 for seven performances in the Opera House. The fully redesigned production, unveiled last year in Salt Lake City, takes audiences on a dramatic, whimsical journey through the eyes of Clara filled with heroic toy soldiers, sword-fighting mice, a journey to the Land of Sweets, elegant waltzes, unique divertissements, and the delicate “Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy”.
The Nutcracker tells the classic holiday story pairing reimagined designs with beloved choreography, this timeless production of the holiday favorite delivers treasured moments and surprising new delights, taking audiences on a wonder-filled and child-like journey. All brand new opulent sets by John Wayne Cook create a depth unlike any ballet scenery I have ever seen. There are doors that open and several rooms in the family home visible at one time. The costumes by David Heuvel are timeless and stunning. Some of the most famous costumes from the performance were on display in the lobby. The use of props, and spectacular effects did not compromise the integrity of the original choreography. Such unique effects include the iconic Christmas tree in Act I growing wider and taking on a 3-D effect, the canon during the battle between the Toy Soldiers and Rat King and the flying sleigh Clara and her Prince ride. All performances are accompanied by the Kennedy Center Opera House Orchestra which adds an extra layer of richness to the performance.
Know before you go:
- Running Time: Approximately 2 hours with one 20 minute intermission.
- Refreshments are available for purchase in the lobby.
- Give yourself an extra 20 minutes if you are picking up your tickets from will call and make sure you have your ID to do so.
- There’s a parking garage attached to the Kennedy Center for convenience.
Ballet West
52 W 200 S Salt Lake City, UT 84101
801-869-6920
Kennedy Center
2700 F Street, NW Washington, DC 20566
(800) 444-1324
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