New Jersey Ballet’s beloved annual tradition enchants youngsters and grown-ups alike with splendid dancing, eye-popping special effects and a touch of holiday magic, set to Tchaikovsky’s iconic score. Ages 4+
Running Time: 2 hours including one intermission
New Jersey Ballet’s Nutcracker is the longest running original professional production in the state. The production debuted in Millburn in 1971 with the international star of New York City Ballet Edward Villella as the Cavalier. Since then, the company has given approximately 800 performances in theatres throughout New Jersey, with more than 5,000 dancers and children, and over a million viewers. Many in the audience who saw the production as children now bring their own children and grandchildren to see this cherished holiday tradition.
Founded in 1958, New Jersey Ballet has been committed to presenting and expanding ballet to communities throughout New Jersey and beyond for over sixty-five years. The Company has built a reputation for excellence, offering audiences a rich tapestry of performances that showcase both timeless classics and cutting-edge contemporary works.
Since 2021, New Jersey Ballet has been expanding under the artistic leadership of Maria Kowroski. Ms. Kowroski, a former principal dancer at New York City Ballet for twenty-five years, brings her vast experience and vision to New Jersey Ballet. Under her direction, the Company’s repertory has grown to include works by choreographers such as George Balanchine, Jerome Robbins, Christopher Wheeldon, Justin Peck, Peter Martins and Gustavao Sansano. Additionally, Ms. Kowroski has commissioned new innovative works by Harrison Ball, a former New York City Ballet principal dancer, and Lauren Lovette, the Resident Choreographer of Paul Taylor Dance Company and former New York City Ballet principal dancer.
Ms. Kowroski’s leadership has elevated New Jersey Ballet to new heights of prominence. The Company has performed at prestigious venues such as Lincoln Center in New York for Dance Against Cancer, Kaatsban in Tivoli, New York and Works in Process at the Guggenheim. These performances have not only showcased the extraordinary talent of New Jersey Ballet’s dancers but also highlighted the Company’s commitment to artistic growth and community engagement.
New Jersey Ballet’s long history is marked by a dedication to providing world-class ballet experiences. Through innovative programming, educational outreach and a steadfast commitment to artistic excellence, New Jersey Ballet continues to inspire and captivate audiences, ensuring a vibrant future for ballet in New Jersey and beyond.
