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Texas Ballet Theater Bring Holiday Magic to Life
Texas Ballet Theater (TBT) will present its annual production of Ben Stevenson, O.B.E.’s The Nutcracker, a cherished tradition that brings audiences of all ages together for an unforgettable celebration of music, movement, and magic. Featuring Tchaikovsky’s iconic score, dazzling costumes, and Stevenson’s stunning choreography, The Nutcracker continues to be one of North Texas’ most beloved holiday events.
“The Nutcracker is more than a ballet, it’s a tradition that connects generations,” said Tim O’Keefe, TBT Artistic Director. “Each year, our students get to share the stage with our company dancers and experience the joy of performing for thousands of audience members. Watching their excitement and growth throughout the season is one of the most rewarding parts of what we do.”
This year’s production features nearly 200 student dancers from TBT’s schools across Dallas, Fort Worth, and Richardson. The students will perform alongside TBT’s professional company members in over 30 performances total between Dallas and Fort Worth. Each show will include approximately 40 student performers, who bring to life beloved characters such as party children, mice, rats, angels, cooks, and clowns, adding youthful energy and spirit to every performance.
Photo courtesy of TBT
“Performing in The Nutcracker gives our students an unparalleled opportunity to learn from TBT’s professional company,” said Lyndette Galen, TBT Richardson School Principal. “Our students gain invaluable stage experience, discipline, and confidence, skills that extend far beyond the studio. Seeing their hard work come to life onstage is truly inspiring.”
PERFORMANCE DETAILS
The Nutcracker performances will take place Nov. 28-Dec. 7 at the Winspear Opera House in Dallas and Dec. 12-28 at Bass Performance Hall in Fort Worth. Tickets may be purchased online or by calling the TBT Box Office at 877-828-9200.
ADDITIONAL EVENTS
Throughout the holiday season, TBT will host several festive family-friendly events to share the magic of The Nutcracker beyond the stage.
Photo courtesy of TBT
Kingdom of Sweets: Prior to the 2 p.m. matinee performances
Families and children with tickets to the 2 p.m. matinee performances are invited to the Kingdom of Sweets for an up-close look at the ballet. Visit the Interactive Ballet area from 1-2 p.m. to touch a tutu, hold a pointe shoe, and meet a real ballerina.
Ugly Sweater Contests: Dec. 4 at the Winspear Opera House and Dec. 18 at Bass Performance Hall
TBT encourages The Nutcracker attendees to celebrate the season with tacky holiday apparel. Enter the Ugly Sweater Contest by checking in with a staff member at the TBT reception booth in the theater lobby between 6-7 p.m. One winner will be selected in each city to receive two tickets to TBT’s May production of Swan Lake.
Photo courtesy of TBT
Sugar Plum Fairy Tea: Dec. 7 at The Adolphus Hotel
As a true multi-generational experience, the Sugar Plum Fairy Tea is brimming with delights for everyone—whimsical crafts, enchanting entertainment, delicious holiday fare, and, of course, visits from beloved The Nutcracker characters. From toddlers to grandparents, every guest will find a touch of magic waiting just for them. Tickets are available for purchase online.
Adaptive Nutcracker Experience: Dec. 4 at TBT’s Richardson School (300 North Coit Road, Suite 231, Richardson, TX 75080)
TBT will host a sensory-friendly Adaptive Nutcracker Experience, designed for children ages 5-12 years old with Down syndrome, autism, or a similar diagnosis. During this one-time event, children will enjoy a Nutcracker-themed story time and craft, followed by a special performance from TBT professional training division students featuring excerpts from The Nutcracker. Please email community@texasballet.com for more information or to register. Tickets are $20 per child.
