Nittany Ballet revitalizes holiday tradition with a fresh performance
UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. (WTAJ) — Nittany Ballet is bringing holiday magic to life with a fresh performance of the "The Nutcracker," performed on Dec. 14 and 15 at Penn State's Eisenhower Auditorium.
This year's production, directed by former Pacific Northwest Ballet principal dancer Paul Gibson, promises new storytelling touches to enchant audiences of all ages.
The performances, scheduled for 7 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 14, and 2 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 15, will feature local dancers alongside guest artists, including Clara Ruf Maldonado and Mark Cuddihee from the Pacific Northwest Ballet. The beloved holiday tale takes the audience on a journey through a magical land of life-sized soldiers, battling mice, and the enchanting Kingdom of Sweets, where the Sugar Plum Fairy reigns supreme.
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Tickets are available online , by phone at 814-863-0255, or in person at the Eisenhower Auditorium box office. Prices are $36 for adults, $30 for seniors, and $25 for students and those under 18. To avoid a $4-per-ticket online service fee, patrons can purchase tickets in person or over the phone during weekday box office hours.
Gibson, and Altoona native, hopes this year's production will rekindle holiday nostalgia and draw new fans to the performance. "Performing in 'The Nutcracker' with the Allegheny Ballet Company was always a holiday tradition for me, my family and our friends," Gibson said.
In Addition to breathtaking ballet, the performance is accessible to those with sensory sensitivities. Eisenhower Auditorium, certified by KutlerCity, provides noise-reducing earmuffs, anti-strobe glasses, and other sensory-friendly items.
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This year's sponsors include Sullivan's Mini Storage, Park Home Furniture, and Growing Tree Toys, as well as individual donors. Proceeds will benefit the Performing Arts School of Central Pennsylvania, Nittany Ballet's parent organization, supporting the artistic development of students from preschoolers to adults.
