MCB’s production of the Balanchine classic, as performed by MCB’s critically acclaimed dancers to live orchestra playing Tchaikovsky’s famed score, stays faithful to the original; the story and choreography remain unchanged. What sets this Nutcracker apart is that it is made for and inspired by South Florida’s geographical location and the vibrant communities within. Look closely and you will see, from the sherbet-hued costumes that adorn the children in the opening party scene, to a Land of Sweets embellished with sugar-coated key limes and a pineapple throne, subtle nods to MCB’s South Florida home abound throughout.

Photo: © Alexander Iziliaev