If you haven’t seen Nutcracker, here’s why THIS is the year you have to go

The Nutcracker is one of those iconic performances you have to see at least once in a lifetime. First performed in December of 1892 in St. Petersburg, Russia, it is now the most popular ballet performance in the world.

If you’ve never had the chance to see it or if it’s been years since you’ve gone, 2017 is THE year to see Charlotte Ballet’s take on the tradition. Here’s why:

New sets and costumes.

Thanks to a generous gift from the McColl family, Charlotte Ballet brought in a world-renowned design team to reimagine the Nutcracker production with new and awe-inspiring sets and costumes in 2016. Before the show, check out some new costume renderings revealed here.

Live music.

There’s something so magical about live music at Christmastime. Because the Charlotte Symphony provides the music, you’re getting both a visual and musical holiday show.

A photo posted by Charlotte Symphony (@cltsymphony) on

Special Performances.

Night at the Nutcracker on Dec. 8.

Charlotte Ballet’s ultimate holiday party with excerpts from Nutcracker and the addition of hors d’oeuvres, cocktails, a silent auction, desserts and a children’s area in Snowflake Village inside Founders Hall, which will be transformed into the Land of Sweets.

Sensory Friendly Nutcracker on Dec. 20.

A performance especially for children, families and adults with sensory disorders and other specific needs.

A photo posted by Charlotte Ballet (@cltballet) on

Great seating.

Nutcracker will be performed in Belk Theater at Blumenthal Performing Arts Center Uptown. The theater’s horseshoe-style seating promises great views as well as world-class acoustics. No seat is more than 135 feet away from the stage. Plus, getting dressed up for a show in this beautiful theater gives all the good holiday vibes.

Local beer (or some bubbly).

While you enjoy the show, sip on local beer from OMB. Now, you can skip the lines by preordering your favorite beverage before the show to pick up at a side table during intermission. VIP.

New dining options.

Dinner and a show? Yes, please. Before or after the show, try one of the several new restaurant options uptown like Angeline’s, Sophia’s Lounge or Merchant and Trade.

The show runs Dec. 9-23 at Belk Theater and tickets are going fast. Get yours here.

(Note: This content was co-created with Charlotte Ballet. Cover photo by Peter Zay.)