UA Dance Institute localizes beloved classic as 'The Akron Nutcracker'

The Dance Institute at The University of Akron (UA) will present the world premiere of The Akron Nutcracker in collaboration with Verb Ballets and the Akron Symphony on Dec. 16 & 17, 2021 at 7:30 p.m. at E.J. Thomas Hall.

The magic of Akron in the 1930s will once again come to life, whisking the audience away for an evening of adventure. This twist on the traditional Nutcracker will unify dance with all new stunning sets and costumes augmented by video projections to recreate the sights and sounds of Akron and the world. Envision an idyllic walk down Main Street, visiting Polsky's Department Store, and spending Christmas Eve with the Seiberling family at Stan Hywet. Dancers with UA's Dance Institute and Dance Program will join the stage alongside the Verb Ballets company dancers for these holiday performances. This production is one of the few in Ohio that feature live orchestration of Tchaikovsky's beloved score conducted by Maestro Christopher Wilkins.

The artistic vision for this new production is led by Verb Ballets' Dr. Margaret Carlson and is produced by the Dance Institute at UA. A team of local choreographers have been engaged to celebrate the diversity that reflects the rich composition of Akron's community. Young students can perform side by side with professional dancers and musicians. Rounding out the many local collaborators of this production is the Firestone High School Choir and ArtSparks. This holiday tradition will bring families the joy of The Nutcracker and showcase Akron's many assets. 

Single tickets are $20 for adults and $15 for youth. All guests are required to wear masks in the theatre regardless of vaccination status. Tickets can be purchased through the E.J. Thomas Hall Box Office at 330-972-7570 or online at Ticketmaster.com. E.J. Thomas Hall is located at 198 Hill St, Akron, OH 44325.

Media contact: Cristine Boyd, 330-972-6476 or cboyd@uakron.edu