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Cultural Scene and Heard: A Russian’s Dance in Vegas – The Nutcracker
By Chad Felix
Tchaikovsky’s holiday season: visions of sugarplums and the mouse king; the waltzing of flowers and snowflakes; that magic castle and the iconic Nutcracker come to life. Despite a lukewarm reception at its 1892 debut in St. Petersburg, “The Nutcracker” has become a holiday staple and, for an increasing number of families, a steadfast tradition. Contemporary ballet companies have been most kind to this time-honored event throughout the years, enthusiastically presenting prospective audiences with a variety of performances to consider. The result, however, is a cavalcade of new questions to consider: suite or full score? Big company or small? On or off the strip? Which performance is right for my child? To help make that decision a little easier for you, we present this guide to Vegas’ incarnations of December’s cultural acme.
Off the Boulevard
In the season of crack-of-dawn department store specials, jet-setting in-laws and monstrous lines, a casual night at the ballet with the family probably sounds pretty close to perfect. Speaking your language? Check out these off-the-strip performances.
Boulder City Ballet Company
Low-key and just out of town, BCBC’s community performance may be just what a busy Vegas family needs. Held at the historic Boulder Theater and featuring an all-inclusive cast, this production is a small, intimate affair that will appeal most to casual attendees and those looking for something out of the hustle and bustle of the city. Also, at $20 a head, it is one of the most affordable of the lot. Performance dates are December 10-12. For tickets and more information, call 293-1161.
Las Vegas Ballet Company
Las Vegas Ballet Company offers another local option hosted at the Summerlin Library. This performance of “Nutcracker Highlights 2010” presents a shortened, greatest-hits type score and an introductory story time that is perfect for children and young adults. Just an hour and twenty minutes in duration, the performance is shorter than a full performance, perfect for those hard-pressed for time and those with antsy youngsters who are eager to participate but may not last a full performance. Performance dates are December 20-23. Tickets are just $17. For more information, call 735-5422.
Anaheim Ballet
Want to check out a touring company and stay off the strip? This season, you’re in luck! The South Point Hotel & Resort in Henderson is pleased to host Anaheim Ballet’s contemporary presentation of the holiday classic. Performance dates are December 16-19. Ticket prices range from $20 to $30. For tickets and more information, call 797-8055.
Amidst the Glitz
Perhaps some family members have just flown in and you’re excited to show off all the glitz and glamour that Las Vegas has to offer. If so, then these grandiose, on-the-strip performances are likely more up your alley.
Nevada Ballet
Show your home spirit by attending the largest local offering of the season. Hosted at the Paris, Nevada Ballet’s production is both the longest running and most lauded of the homegrown performances. Performance dates are December 17-19, 22-24 and 26. Ticket prices range from $30 to $80. For tickets and more information, call 946-4567.
City Ballet of San Diego
On tour and performing at the Planet Hollywood Theater for one-night only is the world-renowned City Ballet of San Diego. This prestigious group brings together artists from around the world, and for this special performance, fifty of Nevada’s finest will join the company. Featuring choreography by Tommy Award winner Elizabeth Wistrich, this is a performance that connoisseurs shouldn’t miss. Performance date is December 4. Tickets prices range from $54 to $84. For tickets and more information, call 745-3000.
So, whether it’s a modest local performance or a traveling company of worldwide acclaim, Tchaikovsky’s “The Nutcracker” is a time-tested, holiday event that reminds us what the holidays are all about: family, friends, giving and music.
