CHARLESTON, W.Va. (WVDN) — As snowflakes fall and Tchaikovsky’s music begins to swell, the curtain rises on a cherished Charleston tradition, THE NUTCRACKER. Once again, the Charleston Ballet joins forces with the West Virginia Symphony Orchestra to bring this enchanting story to life, where live music and dance come together, transporting audiences into a world of dreams, wonder, and holiday happiness.
Performances will grace the stage of the Clay Center for the Arts & Sciences on Friday, Dec. 12, at 7:30 p.m. and Saturday, Dec. 13, at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.
Two school performances, connected to the Avampato Discovery Museum exhibits for West Virginia schools, are scheduled for Dec. 10 and 11 at 11 a.m. They will invite students to enjoy the magic of the season and the excitement of live performances. Group and school reservations can be made through the Clay Center.
Now in its 70th season, themed “Going Platinum: Seven Decades of Dance,” the Charleston Ballet continues its long-standing tradition of presenting “THE NUTCRACKER” as a highlight of the holiday season. This year’s production marks the second performance of the company’s anniversary season, celebrating seven decades of artistic excellence and community engagement.
Under the artistic direction of K. R. Pauley, the Charleston Ballet’s dancers will once again share the stage with the West Virginia Symphony Orchestra, whose live performance elevates the production to new artistic heights. The seamless blend of choreography and symphonic sound creates an immersive experience that continues to enchant audiences year after year. This season’s presentation of THE NUTCRACKER will bring the magic to life with more than 70 local dancers and guest artists. Led by Music Director Maurice Cohn, over 64 musicians from the WVSO will fill the pit, uniting in a dazzling celebration of dance and live music that defines this beloved holiday tradition.
Step into the magic and make “THE NUTCRACKER” part of your holiday story. From the first delicate notes of the orchestra to the final, shimmering bow, every moment celebrates beauty, joy, and tradition. Gather your family, friends, and wonder to experience Charleston’s most enchanting holiday tradition live at the Clay Center.
Tickets are available now, but the magic lasts only for one dazzling weekend.
Tickets start at $27 for adults and $14 for children under 12, and are available through the Clay Center Box Office at 304-561-3570. Ticket prices may vary and can also be purchased online at secure.theclaycenter.org.
The Charleston Ballet, the official West Virginia State Ballet, was formed in 1956 by Andre Van Damme. Mr. Van Damme achieved great success in his native Belgium as the first star dancer with the Royal Opera. Celebrating its 70th season, the company has enriched the cultural life of the state with hundreds of traditional and original ballets. Kim Pauley became artistic director in 1989, becoming one of the very few women directors nationally of a regional ballet. The company has a reputation of high-quality professional performances, artistic integrity, and a strong social conscience.
The West Virginia Symphony Orchestra is West Virginia’s premier performing arts organization, presenting classical, pops, family and chamber-music concerts annually throughout the Mountain State. Currently in its 87th season, the WVSO is a proud member of the community and enriches the region by providing affordable, high-quality concerts, collaborations with West Virginia arts organizations and a nationally award-winning education program.
