THE NUTCRACKER, A MAGICAL SPOKANE HOLIDAY TRADITION

Dec 9, 2005

For Immediate Release

Contact: Annie Matlow 326-3136

SPOKANE — It's not too early to think about an annual tradition in Spokane. For 27 years, the Spokane Symphony and Peter Tchaikovsky's Nutcracker Ballet have been important parts of the holiday tradition for families throughout the region. Each year, two and three generations share the magical experience at the beginning of the holiday season.

The Alberta Ballet and Ballet British Columbia with the Spokane Symphony will present four performances at the Spokane Opera House on Wednesday, Dec. 21, at 7:30 p.m., Thursday, Dec. 22 at 7:30 p.m., and two performances on Friday, Dec. 23 at 2 p.m. & 7:30 p.m.

A handsome prince, dancing snowflakes, the Waltz of Flowers and, of course, the Sugar Plum Fairy create a magical world of music and dance just a part of the delightful story of Clara and the Nutcracker.

The Alberta Ballet presents exciting and critically reviewed choreography to the timeless tale re-created in the traditional Russian style by choreographer Mikko Nissinen. Thirty-seven dancers from the Alberta Ballet and Ballet British Columbia will join more than 50 young Spokane area dancers selected by audition to be a part of the enchanting production.
3
The Spokane Symphony will play under the direction of Guest Conductor Peter Dala. The role of Clara will be danced by Jennifer Hansen and Fritz will be danced by Teresa Parazoo and Ian Tanzer.

The Spokane Symphony and River Park Square have combined forces to offer Nutcracker dance performances on Dec. 3-4, Dec. 10-11, and Dec. 17-18 all from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Ticket prices range from $17 to $35, children 12 and under are $14, and are available Monday through Friday from 9:30 a.m.-5:00 p.m. at the Spokane Symphony Ticket Office at 818 W. Riverside, Suite 100 or by calling (509) 624-1200. Tickets are also available on weekends and evenings, with a service charge, at www.spokanesymphony.org, and TicketsWest at 325-SEAT or 1-800-325-SEAT and all TicketsWest outlet.


CALENDAR LISTING:
The Nutcracker with the Alberta Ballet, Ballet British Columbia, and the Spokane Symphony. Wednesday Dec. 21 at 7:30 p.m., Thursday Dec. 22 at 7:30 p.m., and Friday Dec. 23 at 2 and 7:30 p.m. in the Spokane Opera House. Tickets are $17 to $35, children 12 & under $14. Call the Spokane Symphony Ticket Office at 509-624-1200 or 1-800-325-SEAT, or online at www.spokanesymphony.org.