Get Ready for the Holiday Spectacle: Nutcracker! Magical Christmas Ballet Hits Chattanooga!
Chattanooga, brace yourselves! The charming echoes of the holiday season are on the horizon as the enchanting Nutcracker! Magical Christmas Ballet swoops into town. On December 23, the stage at the magnificent Soldiers & Sailors Memorial Auditorium will be graced by an international ensemble that promises to leave you spellbound. This year marks the 32nd annual North American tour, showcasing a delightful combination of remarkable talent from the ballet capitals across the globe.
A Dream Team of Dancers
Imagine witnessing principal dancers from revered opera houses in Ukraine, along with a stunning cast of 40 exceptional artists hailing from vibrant countries including Japan, Italy, the United Kingdom, Poland, and beyond. This diverse troupe is ready to spread warmth and the true spirit of the holidays—peace.
New Choreography with a Modern Twist
With contributions from the acclaimed Polish choreographer Viktor Davydiuk, this year’s production features a feast for the senses, blending the classical beauty of ballet with exhilarating—yes, a touch of avant-garde circus techniques. As Dan Talmi, executive producer of Talmi Entertainment puts it, “We’re stepping into a new era of artistic expression and creative exploration.” Get ready for a show that promises to captivate everyone from kids to grandparents!
Highlights of the Performance
One of the highlights in this year’s offering is the heartwarming portrayal of Clara, returning to her role as performed by Ukrainian ballerinas Karyna Shatkovskaya and Elena Pechenyuk. And don’t miss Act II’s stunning depiction of the “Land of Peace and Harmony,” featuring the breathtaking acro-ballet adagio Doves of Peace. It’s a powerful and symbolic moment you won’t want to overlook, embodying the universal message of unity and understanding through the beauty of dance.
Introducing the Herald
New elements in the performance this year include the captivating Herald, a Cyr Wheel artist who brings the spirit of the Forest and guides Clara through a joyous extravaganza that will include towering 10-foot puppets, and elegantly dancing couples symbolizing five of the world’s great heritages.
A Culinary Celebration
Excitingly, the tour will also debut the Nutcracker! Magical Christmas Cookbook, featuring delectable recipes inspired by the characters of the ballet and the culinary traditions from around the globe! The cookbook, illustrated by the talented Ukrainian artist Yelyzaveta Bondarenko, reflects the charming tales from the 12 Days of Christmas and creatively integrates beloved traditions from the 12 countries represented in the ballet’s narrative.
Bring Your Friends and Family
Whether you’re an avid ballet-goer or someone just looking to capture the magic of the season, this enchanting performance is perfect for everyone. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit www.nutcracker.com. Special group pricing is available to ensure everyone can join in on the holiday fun—just call 800-320-1733 or send an email to groups@nutcracker.com.
More Holiday Cheer Awaits
But that’s not all! Local students from Belmont University are gearing up to entertain at the beloved annual concert tradition, Christmas at Belmont: Live , while the Cleveland TUBACHRISTMAS will charm guests with performances on December 16. Plus, the Joyous Sounds of Christmas concert by the Jericho Brass Band will surely add to the festive spirit—it’s a jolly time here in Chattanooga!
Mark Your Calendars!
So, mark your calendars for December 23rd and prepare to be swept away into the magical world of dance, music, and culture with the Nutcracker! Magical Christmas Ballet. It’s the perfect way to kick off your holiday festivities and share an unforgettable experience with your loved ones!
