Nutcracker with a toddler
This is my daughter’s first year in ballet and so far she loves it! I thought it might be nice to take her to see the Nutcracker but I was concerned that it might be too long…. But luckily there are many productions that have abbreviated or child-friendly versions. Here are few options:
Brooklyn College: Colonial Nutcracker
Date: December 16, 2012
Time: 2:00 PM
Single Ticket: $10
Ages: Recommended for ages five and up.
An annual holiday favorite, Dance Theatre in Westchester performs its family-friendly, full-length version of Tchaikovsky’s ballet set in wintry colonial Yorktown, complete with a red-coated mouse army, an enchanted nutcracker prince, and simultaneous narration to help young audience members enjoy this timeless classic.
Snow Maiden
Date: December 22, 2012
Time: 6:00 PM
Single Ticket: $50 / $35
Ages: 6 and up
Enjoy this magical Christmas tale in which a worthy young girl is transformed by Grandfather Frost (the Russian Santa Claus) into the beautiful Snow Maiden. Performed in Russian with English subtitles, this delightful children’s extravaganza incorporates traditional Russian songs, dances and elaborate costumes to create a winter wonderland. Plus every child gets a Christmas candy gift box! Presented in association with Anton Krylov.
Brighton Ballet’s The Nutcracker
Date: Saturday, December 8, 2012
Time: 5:00pm
Cost: $18/adults, $12 for kids up to 12 years old
Ages: Recommended for ages 4 and up.
Performance will be held at the Leon M. Goldstein Performing Arts Center, Kingsborough Community College, 2001 Oriental Blvd, Brooklyn, NY 11235
The Nutcracker @ BAM
Date: December 7-16th, 2012
Time: Several, check website for more info
Cost: Starts at $25
Ages: Appropriate for ages 4 & up
The New York Times praised, “American Ballet Theatre has a production like no other, made with complete theatrical authority from first to last. The poetry of Alexei Ratmansky’s vision is very striking. I’m impatient to see it again.”
Photo: Marissa Buick