Get ready for visions of sugar plums, a mouse king and a sparkling snow scene, as The Appalachian Ballet Company proudly announces its 50th Anniversary of The Nutcracker. The evening performances are accompanied with live music by The Knoxville Symphony Orchestra performing Tchaikovsky’s holiday masterpiece.
The beloved ballet tells the story of a little girl named Clara who is given a magical nutcracker doll on Christmas Eve. She encounters the frightful Mouse King before embarking on a wondrous journey through the Land of Snow and the Kingdom of Sweets. Annamae Sterling will dance the role of Clara. Young and old alike will experience the many special effects, including the Christmas tree that “grows” and the “snow” falling during the snow scene.
Ticket prices for The Nutcracker start at $20 and can be purchased here. The Sugarplum Fairy will be danced by seasoned professional Kylie Morton Berry, and guest artist James La Russa will dance the role of Drosselmeyer. The ballet company welcomes the opportunity to be onstage once again, and the theaters will have a mask policy.
Knoxville Civic Auditorium
- Friday, Dec. 3, 10 a.m. school matinée
- Saturday, Dec. 4, 7 p.m. public performance with Knoxville Symphony Orchestra
- Sunday, Dec. 5, 3 p.m. public performance
Clayton Center for the Arts, Maryville
- Friday, Dec. 10, 7 p.m. public performance with Knoxville Symphony Orchestra
- Saturday, Dec. 11, 3 p.m. public performance
Purchase tickets here or call 865-982-8463.
Suzanne Cada is deputy director of the Arts & Culture Alliance