Appalachian Ballet readies annual 'Nutcracker'

The Appalachian Ballet Company hopes families will spend the first weekend in December with the ballet's own holiday tradition.

Now in its 38th season, the regional, Maryville-based ballet performs "The Nutcracker" at 8 p.m. Dec. 5 and 2 p.m. Dec. 6 at the Knoxville Civic Auditorium. The Knoxville Symphony Orchestra accompanies with Tchaikovsky's score.

The ballet's story is traditional - the young girl Claire visits a magical land whose residents include a Sugar Plum Fairy and a Nutcracker Prince. Each year Appalachian Artistic Director Amy Moore Morton choreographs some new dances or reworks other parts of the ballet.

The production includes about 150 performers, including 63 dancers and another 30 actors. This year 36 members of the choir from Farragut High School will sing during Act I's snow scene.

Tickets for "The Nutcracker" go on sale Monday. Advance tickets are $21-$36 for adults, with $5 discounts for students and senior citizens.

In addition to the public shows, the entire ballet is performed in 10 a.m. school matinees Dec. 3 and Dec. 4. These tickets are $5 for students; school reservations must be made by Nov. 21 by calling the ballet, 865-982-8463. The program includes a curriculum and lesson plan teachers may use in conjunction with their class trips. The lesson plans are mailed with the class reservation.

Morton says she often meets adults who recall their first "Nutcracker."

"They will say, 'I remember in the third grade going to see the Appalachian Ballet do "Nutcracker," and it was the first ballet I ever saw.' "

Amy McRary may be reached at 865-342-6437.

© 2009, Knoxville News Sentinel Co.
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