Orange Beach, Ala. – (OBA) –
The beloved holiday classic “The Nutcracker” is set to enchant audiences once again at the Orange Beach Performing Arts Center on December 6th and 7th, 2024. Presented by the Coastal Ballet Company, this annual performance has become a cherished tradition for many families in the area.

“The Nutcracker” ballet, based on E.T.A. Hoffmann’s 1816 fairy tale “The Nutcracker and the Mouse King,” has captivated audiences worldwide since its premiere in St. Petersburg, Russia, in 1892. The ballet tells the magical story of young Clara, who receives a nutcracker as a gift on Christmas Eve. As the clock strikes midnight, the nutcracker comes to life, leading Clara on a fantastical journey through a winter wonderland and the Land of Sweets.

The ballet features the iconic score by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, which has become one of his most famous compositions. The music includes beloved melodies such as the “Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy,” featuring the unique sound of the celesta, an instrument Tchaikovsky discovered while composing the score.

While “The Nutcracker” had a lukewarm reception at its premiere, it has since become a cornerstone of American ballet. The first full-length American production was staged by the San Francisco Ballet in 1944, and George Balanchine’s 1954 version with the New York City Ballet catapulted the ballet to widespread popularity. Today, “The Nutcracker” is a holiday staple for ballet companies across the United States, often providing essential revenue for their annual operations.

The Coastal Ballet Company’s rendition of “The Nutcracker” promises to bring this magical tale to life for Orange Beach audiences. Performances are scheduled for:

• Friday, December 6th at 7 p.m.
• Saturday, December 7th at 2 p.m.

General admission tickets are priced as follows:

• Adults: $25
• Children (ages 4-17): $10
• Children 3 and younger: Free

This accessible pricing structure makes it possible for families to experience the wonder of “The Nutcracker” together, potentially creating new holiday traditions.

Attending “The Nutcracker” offers more than just entertainment; it provides an opportunity to experience a piece of cultural history. The ballet has been adapted and reimagined countless times, with versions reflecting diverse cultural perspectives, such as Donald Byrd’s “Harlem Nutcracker” and Robert Joffrey’s Americanized production.

As the holiday season approaches, the Coastal Ballet Company’s performance of “The Nutcracker” at the Orange Beach Performing Arts Center presents a perfect opportunity for locals and visitors alike to immerse themselves in the magic of this timeless ballet. Whether it’s an annual tradition or a first-time experience, “The Nutcracker” continues to captivate audiences of all ages with its enchanting story, beautiful music, and spectacular dance.