The Texas Ballet Theater has been producing the Christmas classic The Nutcracker since 1988.

This year TBT had to think outside the box when presenting the Nutcracker, but the virtual version of the show still has all the bells and whistles (and then some) of the classic version that Texans love.

The Nutcracker portrayed by Eric Figueredo. Photo: Texas Ballet Theater.

This year, The Nutcracker goes online for $30 tickets per household. Not only will folks get to watch the full 2012 version of Artistic Director Ben Stevenson, O.B.E.’s The Nutcracker online, but they will also get access to a new, 30-minute version of The Nutty Nutcracker, the company’s annual silly spoof. This show is traditionally a one-night-only event, however, guests can watch The Nutty Nutcracker on TBT’s website as well.

The Sugarplum Fairy for The Nutcracker. Portrayed by Allisyn Hsieh Caro. Photo: Texas Ballet Theater.

“We’re just excited to be able to continue offering this to the community and connecting with people,” said Mary Ashley Ray with TBT. “And it’s kind of fun because the 2012 version of the show includes some fan-favorite dancers who have retired.”

Left: Riley Moyano, Center: Alexander Kotelenets, Right: Jomanuel Velazquez for The Nutty Nutcracker. Photo: Texas Ballet Theater.

According to a press release, TBT canceled the in-person show due to, “pandemic-related safety restrictions both within the company and at its performance venues in Dallas and Fort Worth.”

From the left: Riley Moyano, Katelyn Rhodes, Alexander Kotelenets, Michelle Taylor, Jomanuel Velazquez for The Nutty Nutcracker. Photo: Texas Ballet Theater.

COVID-19 also put a halt to TBT’s annual performances normally offered to local elementary school children so this year the company is offering the virtual experience directly to schools like Dallas ISD.

To learn more or to connect with TBT, visit the website, or follow the company on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook.