The stage at the Pioneer Center for the Performing Arts in Reno will be alive with a sugar plum fairy and dancing mice as A.V.A. Ballet Theatre presents the annual Nutcracker Ballet on Dec. 20, 21, and 22, 2024. Artistic director Alexander Van Alstyne has choreographed an exciting rendition of the popular holiday ballet, and the Reno Philharmonic Orchestra will perform Tchaikovsky’s moving score. Laura Jackson will be conducting the orchestra. Due to popular demand, we will continue to have a fifth performance.

Principal dancers who have performed with professional ballet companies such as Ballet West, Kansas City Ballet and the Diablo Ballet will perform the leading roles along side a large cast of local talent.

Nutcracker performances will be held Friday, Dec. 20 at 8 p.m., Dec. 21st at 2 p.m. and 8 p.m., and Sunday, Dec. 22 at noon and 5 p.m. at the Pioneer Center for the Performing Arts in downtown Reno. Ticket prices are $30 to $65 with discounts for seniors and children.

A special Sugar Plum party will be held after the Saturday and Sunday afternoon performances, where children can meet the Nutcracker characters.

A.V.A. Ballet Theatre is the resident ballet company of the Pioneer Center for the Performing Arts. They are northern Nevada’s largest company under the instruction of a professional faculty with years of performing experience in renowned metropolitan ballet and production companies across the United States and Europe.

Mark your calendars now for this spectacular holiday tradition. For tickets call the Pioneer Center box office at 775-434-1050 or online at pioneercenter.com. Box office hours are Monday through Friday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

For more information call A.V.A. Ballet Theatre at 775-762-5165 or online at avaballet.com or call the Pioneer Center for the Performing Arts at 775-686-6600.