A FIRM FAMILY FAVORITE IN BUFFALO

Join Marie as she embarks on her magical journey through a thrilling battle scene, breathtaking winter wonderland, and a delectable land of sweets. This ballet is perfect for all, whether you are a first-timer or a regular patron coming to see it for the umpteenth time; it will leave you agape and full of the holiday spirit.

WHAT IS IT ABOUT?

A huge Christmas Eve party is in full swing at Marie Stahlbaum's parents house. During the festivities, the mysterious godfather Drosselmeyer presents Marie with a beautifully made nutcracker doll she cradles in her arms long after the party ends. Falling asleep after the festivities, Marie is woken up with visions of her Nutcracker doll coming to life and battling an army of dancing mice and rats that have invaded the townhouse.

This nightmarish scene, complete with life-sized tin soldiers and cheese-firing canons concludes with a now-human Nutcracker prince defeating the rat army and Marie transformed into a grown-up version of herself opposite her handsome companion. After they journey to a frosty white forest, Marie and her prince mount an opulent sleigh that carries them both to the mythical Land of Sweets, ruled over by the benevolent Sugar Plum Fairy.

The dance scene in the second act is directed for your sheer entertainment, presented as a series of gorgeous short vignettes themed mostly after the dances of various countries, including the sensual and graceful "Arabian" dance, a high-flying Russian Trepak and perhaps the production's finest corps choreography piece, "Flowers".