Moscow Ballet to present ‘Great Russian Nutcracker’ at SFA

Every Christmas audiences around the world watch ballet troupes bring to life a young girl's Christmas Eve dream in which a nutcracker defeats the Rat King, turns into a handsome prince, and takes her to a far-off land where dancers from Spain, China, France, Russia and Arabia entertain them.

"And this year, East Texans can experience this beloved holiday tradition as the Moscow Ballet presents ‘Great Russian Nutcracker’ at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 17, and Friday, Dec. 18, in W.M. Turner Auditorium on the campus of Stephen F. Austin State University," said Sylvia Bierschenk, director of Arts Information at SFA.

The ballet is an Encore Event to the SFA College of Fine Arts' University Series.

"We are excited once again to have the renowned Moscow Ballet troupe in Nacogdoches to share the beautiful story and dance set to Pytor Tchaikovsky's music," said John W. Goodall, associate dean of the college.

Acclaimed for exquisite dancing and spectacular sets and costumes, critics rave that "Great Russian Nutcracker" is "flawless," "breathtaking" and "dazzling," Goodall continued. "It will be delightful experience for the entire family."

The world-renowned troupe of dancers features top graduates of Perm, Vaganova, Moscow State Academic Choreographic and Kiev schools and is directed by ballet master Anatoli Emelianov. Please visit www.nutcracker.com for more information on the troupe.

"When Moscow Ballet was last here in 2005, we sold out both performances," said Diane Flynn, Box Office manager. "We anticipate the same situation this year, and so I encourage patrons to purchase their tickets as soon as possible."

Prior to the Thursday night performance, Gene H. Moon, director of orchestral activities at SFA, will give an informative talk about the music at 7 p.m. in Griffith Gallery, across the hall from Turner Auditorium.

"Great Russian Nutcracker" is sponsored in part by Lehman Eye Center.

W.M. Turner Auditorium is located in the Griffith Fine Arts Building, 2222 Alumni Dr. on the SFA campus. Tickets to the concert range from $35 to $17.50, with discounts available for seniors, students and youth. For tickets or more information, visit www.finearts.sfasu.edu or call (936) 468-6407 or (888) 240-ARTS.