The Nutcracker snow scene; image by Michelle Carr Photography

MARYVILLE -  Appalachian Ballet Company invites audiences to celebrate the season with The Nutcracker, the company’s beloved holiday tradition, now in its 55th season. Featuring live music by the Knoxville Symphony Orchestra for every public performance, conducted by James Fellenbaum, this festive production brings Clara’s enchanting adventure to life with beautiful dancing, lavish scenery and the magic of the holidays.

The company will present four public performances across two weekends. At the Knoxville Civic Auditorium in Knoxville, audiences can attend Saturday, December 5, at 7 p.m. or Sunday, December 6, at 3 p.m. The following weekend, The Nutcracker comes to the Clayton Center for the Arts in Maryville on Friday, December 11, at 7 p.m. and Saturday, December 12, at 3 p.m.

Principal artists Laura Morton La Russa and James La Russa will dance the roles of the Sugar Plum Fairy and the Nutcracker Prince. Guest artists Chandler Proctor, Alex Gonzaga, Craig Wasserman and Jeff Wolfe will join Appalachian Ballet Company’s dancers in featured roles, including the Snow King, Arabian Prince and Harlequin Dolls. Eleven-year-old Eliza Small will dance the lead role of Clara, with Micah Merli returning as Herr Drosselmeyer.

The Nutcracker has delighted audiences with its timeless story and memorable characters from toy soldiers and sparkling snowflakes to the grandeur of the ballet’s beloved dances. The production offers a festive experience for the whole family. More than 2,000 students are also expected to attend a school matinee at 10 a.m. on December 4 at the Knoxville Civic Auditorium.

Knoxville Civic Auditorium
Saturday, December 5 - 7:00 pm
Sunday, December 6 - 3 pm

Clayton Center for the Arts, Maryville, TN
Friday, December 11 - 7:00 pm
Saturday, December 12 - 3 pm


Tickets are available at appalachianballet.org. For the Clayton Center for the Arts, call 865-981-8590.