The Sugar Plum Sweetness of a Holiday Classic

Saturday, Nov. 25

A heartwarming Christmas-time tradition, The Nutcracker offers holiday audiences an accessible bridge into the world of ballet. Dancers practice and perform all year round, and this enduring story serves as a welcome point of entry for any festive dance layman. Just in time for the seasonal feelings of good tidings, the Erie Contemporary Ballet Theatre (ECBT) is ready to stage its third annual production of the Peter Tchaikovsky classic, this year taking place at Mercyhurst's Mary D'Angelo Performing Arts Center.

"First and foremost, when people think of The Nutcracker they instantly think of Christmas and the holiday season," exclaimed Sarah Purvis, ECBT's Artistic Director. "Even if people don't know it's from the Nutcracker Suite, everyone recognizes the 'Party Scene March,' 'Marzipan,' 'Russian,' and the 'Sugar Plum Fairy Variation.' It is some of the most recognizable classical music in the world!"

The timeless and unforgettable score provides a backdrop to mesmerizing dance numbers.  The production is family-oriented, and child-friendly. "Tchaikovsky's Nutcracker has many repetitive measures, so we decided to eliminate some of the musical repetition without compromising the beloved suite," Purvis explained. Featuring handmade costumes and gorgeous backdrops, the show promises to be a truly dazzling holiday affair. On Sunday, Nov. 26, the ECBT will also host "Clara's Nutcracker Party" beginning at 1 p.m., which will feature crafts, face-painting, and plenty of cast interactions, perfect for all ages. — Nick Warren

Saturday, Nov. 25 at 7 p.m, Sunday, Nov. 26 at 3 p.m. (following "Clara's Nutcracker Party") // Mary D'Angelo Performing Arts Center, 501 E 38th St. // $17-25 adults, $17-22 for seniors 65 and up and children 12 and under // 814.824.3000 // eriecbt.org