Tchaikovsky’s beautiful, sweeping score bolsters the two-act ballet, written in 1892. The live MOT orchestra accompanies the gorgeous production. 30, if they have a ticket to the show, or for $25 if they only want to participate in the class. Any 8- to 13-year-old can take advantage of this opportunity from 11 a.m. One of the unique features of this visit from the Columbus ballet is that the company teaches a master class each time they visit. There also will be a live ballet talk prior to each performance. The traditional experience includes activities for children, including the appearance of live reindeer, photos with Santa Claus and, of course, the Nutcracker in person. There will also be 90 minutes of fun things to do before the show even begins. Shelby Township native Sophie Miklosovic returns this year, along with 60 local children bringing the Russian fantasy to life on the Detroit Opera House stage. “Paired with our holiday activities and live orchestra, it’s a magical experience for children and adults alike.” “BalletMet’s beloved production has become a holiday tradition to our Metro Detroit audiences,” says MOT Artistic Advisor for Dance Jon Teeuwissen.

The ballet company, based in Columbus, Ohio, has created a beautiful partnership with MOT in Detroit that people have come to love and anticipate. Columbus BalletMet’s “The Nutcracker” will help ring in the holidays with one of Southeast Michigan’s premiere traditions of the season, producing three performances of the Christmas classic.

Detroit opera house nutcracker