Children's Ballet Theatre of Michigan to Present THE NUTCRACKER, 11/28-30

The Children's Ballet Theatre of Michigan heralds the onset of the holiday season with its 34th annual production of The Nutcracker. Creative Director Gregory M. George will transform MSU Wharton Center for Performing Arts into a winter wonderland on Friday, November 28th and Saturday, November 29th at 7:30 p.m. and again Sunday, November 30th at 2:00 p.m. A special show for school and community groups is offered on Monday, December 1st. Audience members should plan to purchase tickets early at www.cbtdance.org or by phoning the Wharton Box office at 1-800-Wharton.

'The Nutcracker is captivating! There's a gleaming party scene, a dramatic battle, and a journey on an enchanted bed" said Board Chair Michelle Renfrew. "For decades, fans have come from miles away to see our dancers. It's a special time to enjoy the magic, pageantry and holiday excitement of this beloved classic."

The adventure begins in a Toy Shop as Uncle Drosselmeyer is creating magical toys for a Christmas party. Clara receives a nutcracker doll that magically transforms into a handsome prince. He leads her through an enchanted forest to the Land of Sweets where they meet the Sugar Plum Fairy and are entertained by the exotic residents including Mirliton Reed Flutes, Spanish Chocolate, Arabian Coffee, Chinese Tea and Russian Candy Canes.

CBT is a premiere audition based company comprised of over 60 dancers ages 8-18 who reside in Ingham, Eaton, Clinton, and other outlying Counties. The principal role of Sugar Plum Fairy will be shared by Okemos Junior Brianna Renfrew and Lansing Catholic Central senior Abby Lasch. There are six graduating seniors with the company: Shannon Gebauer, Abby Lasch, Michaela Methner, Mackenzie Mitchell, and Nia Vrana. Fritz and Clara will be played by Rachel Ramsay and Hannah Berry. The cast will feature dancers from the Children's Miracle Network, eleven Little Guest Dancers and male guest dancers from Grand Valley University and Alma College.

'Never before has the Nutcracker Suite sounded so sweet. I saw the rehearsal last night and felt a lump in my throat as I watched my young daughter leap across the stage dressed like a mouse. Although personally touching to me, the show is will be heartwarming and fun for all," said Stephaine Hicks, Mother of Maddie

Following Wharton performances, all of the beloved characters from The Nutcracker will participate in a special meet and greet. Company Auditions for aspiring new dancers will be December 7th at the studio. Children must be 8 years old by December 1, 2014 to participate. Please visit our website for an audition schedule.

To schedule an interview, for more information, or for media tickets contact Cindy at (517) 214-1706 or Tickets@cbtdance.com.

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