The Nutcracker returns to The Strand on Dec. 9

José Mateo Ballet Theatre brings its treasured production of The Nutcracker back to Dorchester this season for an extended run (Dec.9-18) at the Strand Theatre in Uphams Corner. The holiday classic inspired by Tchaikovsky’s score will also be staged at the Cutler Majestic Theatre from Nov.25-Dec. 4.  

Choreographed by Artistic Director José Mateo, and, Mateo’s ‘Nutcracker’ brings Clara’s dream world to life with festive sets, sumptuous costumes, and spectacular dancing. 

Over 200 children, ages 6-18 from throughout Massachusetts and New Hampshire, join Ballet Theatre’s skilled company dancers as Party Children, Mice, Soldiers, Polichinelles, Cherubs, and Angels. It is the only professional Nutcracker production in the area to hold open auditions for students outside of its own school.

The company’s Young Dancers Program is now in its second year at its newly launched Dorchester studio at the St. Mary’s Episcopal Church at 14 Cushing Ave. Due to the success of the Dorchester studio, this year’s Nutcracker has more children from the Greater Dorchester area in the production than ever before — with over 30 local dancers. 

The role of Clara is danced this season by five young dancers rotating the role in all venues: Amy Chan (15) from Cambridge, Olivia Hynes (15) from Saugus, SaminCharepoo (16) from Quincy, Cecelia Zevallos (16) from Somerville, and AshleyWatts (16) from Wellesley. The Dorchester performances begin with a 7 p.m. show on Friday, Dec. 9. See a full schedule at BalletTheatre.org.


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