Theater-goers of all ages will capture the spirit of the holiday season when the Dance Connection presents its family version of “The Nutcracker Ballet” at the Kelsey Theatre on the campus of Mercer County Community College, 1200 Old Trenton Road, West Windsor.
Performances will take place on Dec. 17 at 7 p.m., Dec. 18 at 1 p.m. and 4 p.m., and Dec. 19 at 1 p.m. and 4 p.m., according to a press release.
This popular event, danced entirely by children age 5 and up, is set in 19th century Europe to the score by Tchaikovsky. The ballet features “Nutcracker” moments, complete with dolls and sweets coming to life, mice, toy soldiers and snowflakes. The show is fully narrated and abridged, and adults and children of all ages are welcome to attend, according to the press release.
In the show, Young Clara sneaks downstairs on Christmas Eve to play with her favorite present – a Nutcracker – when she is suddenly confronted by the menacing Mouse Queen.
Her Nutcracker prince comes alive, saves her and whisks her away to the Land of The Sweets where Snow Queen and King, snow fairies, dancing sugar plums and toy soldiers all await her.
The Dance Connection, directed by David Keiffer, with locations in West Windsor and Hillsborough, is a community of central New Jersey teachers, parents and students who appreciate all the possibilities that open up for a child when they study dance, according to the press release.
The dancers range in age from 5 to 18 and come from around the region.
Tickets for “The Nutcracker Ballet” are $14 for children, students and senior citizens, and $16 for adults.
Tickets may be purchased online at www.KelseyTheatre.org or by calling the box office at 609-570-3333. Tickets may also ordered directly at https://ci.ovationtix.com/35232
The Kelsey Theatre is wheelchair accessible and free parking is available next to the theater. Assisted listening devices are available upon request.
Proof of COVID vaccination or a negative COVID test within 48 hours is required at the door and a mask is required to be worn inside the theater, according to the press release.
