Published by New Jersey Stage
originally published: 11/23/2017
(WEST WINDSOR, NJ) -- No holiday season is as sweet without “The Nutcracker.” Join Clara, the Nutcracker and the Sugar Plum Fairy for Dance Connection’s family adaptation of the timeless Tchaikovsky classic at Mercer County Community College’s (MCCC’s) Kelsey Theatre. Performances take place December 15-17.
Even the youngest theater goers will enjoy this fully-narrated, one-hour ballet set to the famous Tchaikovsky score. Dolls and sweets come to life, mice and toy soldiers do battle, and snowflakes dance in a snow covered forest. It’s abridged and yet complete – with a large cast danced almost entirely by children and teens in beautiful costumes and scenery full of warmth and wonder. At the conclusion of the show, children and parents are invited up on stage to meet their favorite characters, who will be available to sign autographs.
Dance Connections (formerly known as New Jersey Youth Ballet) is based in Hillsborough, NJ. It was founded in 2007 by David Kieffer, who has extensive experience as a teacher, dancer and choreographer.
Dates and show times for this magical production are: Friday, December 15 at 7:00pm, Saturday, December 16 at 1:00pm and 4:00pm, and Sunday, December 17 at 1:00pm and 4:00pm. Kelsey Theatre is located on Mercer’s West Windsor campus at 1200 Old Trenton Road.
Tickets for “The Nutcracker” are $16 for adults, and $14 for seniors and children. Tickets may be purchased online at www.kelseytheatre.net or by calling the Kelsey Box Office at 609-570-3333. Kelsey Theatre is wheelchair accessible, with free parking is available next to the theater. For a complete listing of adult and children’s events, visit the Kelsey website or call the box office for a brochure.
PHOTO: Clara (Mikaela Miranda) is about to embark on adventures with the beloved Nutcracker she receives during the family's Christmas party.
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New Jersey Ballet Presents Red, White And Blue
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Sunday, November 15, 2026 @ 6:30pm
State Theatre New Jersey
15 Livingston Avenue, New Brunswick, NJA holiday mash-up for the whole family,
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The Hip Hop Nutcracker is brought to life by a powerhouse cast of a dozen all-star dancers, a DJ, a violinist, and an MC.
2026 Princeton Dance Festival
Friday, November 20, 2026 @ 8:00pm
McCarter Theatre Center (Berlind Theatre)
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2026 Princeton Dance Festival
Saturday, November 21, 2026 @ 2:00pm
McCarter Theatre Center (Berlind Theatre)
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2026 Princeton Dance Festival
Saturday, November 21, 2026 @ 8:00pm
McCarter Theatre Center (Berlind Theatre)
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EVENT PREVIEWS
State Theatre New Jersey presents The Hip Hop Nutcracker
(NEW BRUNSWICK, NJ) -- State Theatre New Jersey presents The Hip Hop Nutcracker on Sunday, November 15, 2026 at 6:30pm. This is a contemporary dance spectacle that is a re-mixed and re-imagined version of the classic, smashing hip hop dance and Tchaikovsky's timeless music together into a heart-stirring and inspirational holiday event. The show features a powerhouse cast of a dozen all-star dancers, a DJ, a violinist, and MC Kurtis Blow, one of hip hop's founding fathers, who opens the show with a short set.
American Repertory Ballet presents "The Nutcracker" in Princeton, Red Bank, and New Brunswick
American Repertory Ballet (ARB) invites you to experience The Nutcracker, a timeless story filled with magic, beauty, and the spirit of the season. For more than 60 years, this cherished production has captivated audiences of all ages, enchanting first-time visitors while remaining a treasured holiday tradition for thousands of families. With its breathtaking dancing, unforgettable music, and beloved characters, The Nutcracker continues to create memories that last a lifetime.
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