Photo by Olivia Moon Photography
José Mateo Ballet Theatre’s production of “The Nutcracker” returns to Dorchester’s Strand Theatre this weekend for 14 performances through Dec. 21. The production “honors the traditional style of production, but breathes new life into each of its scenes through imaginative choreography and striking dancing,” according to the company, which has been staging shows at the Uphams Corner theatre since 1987.
The run begins with a 2 p.m. matinee on Saturday, and includes over 100 children ages 6-18. Tickets are available starting at $25.
Mary Thompson, a former JMBT principal dancer and newly appointed Associate Director of Education and Performance who originated the role of the Sugar Plum Fairy in the premiere of “The Nutcracker”in 1986, will be setting José Mateo’s choreography on the professional dancers, including returning artists Da’ Von Doane, former Principal Dancer of Dance Theatre of Harlem, and Maria Perez, former JMBT Summer Intensive student and current soloist with Mauro Ballet Company in San Juan, Puerto Rico.
JMBT partners with more than 50 local social service agencies to provide 6,000 free and reduced-priced “Nutcracker” tickets to under-served groups through its Community Ticket Access Program.
In keeping with its long-term vision of providing dance opportunities to all in the Boston area, JMBT continues to expand its Young Dancers Program in the Dorchester Studio in Uphams Corner.
This year’s presentation features more than 15 local children from the greater Dorchester area. Classes at the Dorchester Studio are offered to children ages 3 and up and are open to boys and girls of all backgrounds.
Go to ballettheatre.org for more info.
