For the first time since 2019, the Interlochen Arts Academy Dance Division will present public, in-person performances of The Nutcracker this December.

Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky’s ballet will run for five performances, including a newly added Sunday matinee. Performance dates are: Thursday, Dec. 9 at 7:30pm; Friday, Dec. 10 at 7:30pm.; Saturday, Dec. 11 at 2pm; Saturday, Dec. 11 at 7:30pm; and Sunday, Dec. 12 at 2pm. All performances will be held in Corson Auditorium. Tickets can be purchased online. 

A global holiday tradition, The Nutcracker follows Clara and the enchanted Nutcracker prince as they journey through the Land of Sweets. Interlochen’s production will feature 41 young dancers from 22 U.S. states and Canada and will feature "exquisite hand-stitched costumes, lush scenic design, and live accompaniment by the Interlochen Arts Academy Orchestra, conducted by Leslie Dunner," according to an Interlochen release. "After utilizing creative, socially distant choreography in 2020, performers will resume traditional staging and full-contact partnering."

To celebrate the return of live audiences, Interlochen will host a youth drawing contest for an opportunity to win tickets to this year’s production. The contest runs November 15 through December 1. Winners will receive their choice of up to four tickets for the evening performance on Friday, December 10, or Saturday, December 11, with a behind-the-scenes tour of the production.

In compliance with Interlochen’s COVID-19 policy, all visitors must wear masks while inside campus buildings and for the duration of the performance. COVID-19 vaccines are strongly recommended for those eligible.