The annual holiday tradition presented by Berks Ballet Theatre, The Nutcracker, takes the stage this weekend at West Reading’s Scottish Rite Cathedral. The classic tale brings the story of Clara and her beloved Nutcracker to life through classical ballet and Tchaikovsky’s memorable score.
This year’s performances of The Nutcracker are dedicated to former Berks Ballet Theatre Associate Director, Robert Sheridan who passed away August 17, 2019. Bob was an integral part in helping founding Artistic Director, Carol Ennis build the performing company. He joined her in 1977 to help mount BBT’s second production of The Nutcracker.
What’s new this year? The Dew Drop Fairy gets a new look as well as one of the party scene Dolls, the Snow Queen and King and Arabian. Clara’s throne in the Land of Sweets also gets a massive update by master woodworker, Brian Obst.
Three months of rehearsal goes into the annual performance. In addition to the company dancers and conservatory students, several guest dancers from Ballet X and Dance Theater of Harlem will take to the stage this weekend, including Berks County’s Outstanding Young Woman 2020, Ahna Romanski, perform the role of Snow Queen.
Tickets can be purchased online at berksballettheatre.com or on-site at the box office which opens one hour prior to each show. Performances are held Saturday December 14th, 1pm & 6pm, and Sunday December 15th, 2pm. The Scottish Rite Cathedral is located at 430 S 7th Ave, Reading, PA 19611 (parking is free).