Connecticut Ballet announces performance dates for annual Nutcracker production

Carla Hernandez as the Dewdrop in Connecticut Ballet's The Nutcracker.
Photo by Bill Morgan Media. — Carla Hernandez as the Dewdrop in Connecticut Ballet’s The Nutcracker.
Photo by Bill Morgan Media.

Connecticut Ballet, led by Founder and Artistic Director Brett Raphael, has announced dates for its annual holiday production of The Nutcracker. The performances are scheduled for The Palace Theatre in Stamford on December 12 and 13, followed by engagements at The Bushnell in Hartford on December 19 and 20.

The production stands as the longest-running and largest professional Nutcracker in Connecticut, having entertained audiences for 42 years. Guest artists from national dance companies, including New York City Ballet and American Ballet Theatre, will perform Raphael’s original choreography as the Sugar Plum Fairy and her Cavalier across both locations.

The Hartford performances at The Bushnell’s Belding Theatre will feature live music provided by a 57-piece ensemble from the Hartford Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Assistant Conductor Adam Kerry Boyles. The Stamford shows at The Palace Theatre will feature a recorded performance by the Bolshoi Theatre Orchestra.

Following each performance, attendees will have the opportunity to participate in lobby meet-and-greet sessions with guest artists and company dancers. A Nutcracker Boutique will also be open in the lobby before and after each show offering keepsake items and holiday gifts.

Showtimes at The Palace Theatre in Stamford are set for Saturday, December 12 at 2 p.m. and 6 p.m., and Sunday, December 13 at 1 p.m. and 5 p.m. Tickets can be purchased online through ticketmaster.com or by calling the box office.

Performances at The Bushnell in Hartford are scheduled for Saturday, December 19 at 2 p.m. and 6 p.m., and Sunday, December 20 at 1 p.m. and 5 p.m. Tickets are available online through The Bushnell website, over the phone, or in person at the Hartford venue.

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Connecticut Ballet announces performance dates for annual Nutcracker production