Lafayette Ballet Company: The Nutcracker 2019

The Nutcracker was first presented by LSPA 36 years ago, with the Lafayette Ballet Company continuing this tradition during the first full weekend of each December.  Over 100 dancers will perform this classic ballet at the Troup High School Fine Arts Auditorium in LaGrange.

The traditional story of The Nutcracker takes place during a festive party on Christmas Eve at the Stahlbaum family home.  Young Clara is given a beloved toy nutcracker and when she returns in the night to retrieve it, the Nutcracker comes to life and battles the imposing Seven-Headed Mouse King.  Because of Clara’s love and bravery during the fight, the Nutcracker turns into a handsome prince who leads her on a wondrous journey through an amazing fantasy land.

Tchaikovsky's popular score is choreographed by LBC’s Artistic Director Amy Orr.  In addition to LBC dancers, guest artists Raul Penaido and Brandon Nguyen-Hilton bring a professional level of skill to this stage. Guest performers from the community make up the members of the party scene. Vibrant costuming and beautiful scenery combine to further enhance the talent on stage.

Performers with the Lafayette Ballet Company are trained at the Lafayette Center for Dance, located at LSPA, in downtown LaGrange. By having dancers of all ages share the stage during The Nutcracker, the students are able to “see an evolution of their training and where they can go,” explains Orr.  From the youngest soldiers, portrayed by kindergarteners, to the experienced soloists who perform with professional partners, everyone plays a part that is designed to showcase their talent, current skill level, and dedication to dance.

The Nutcracker will be performed Friday, December 6th at 7:00 pm; Saturday December 7th at 2:00 pm and 7:00 pm; and Sunday, December 8th at 2:00 pm.  Performances will take place at the Troup High School Fine Arts Auditorium. Ticket prices vary with seating location and are $16 and $22 for adults and $10 and $12 for students.