The Fairfax Symphony Orchestra (FSO) and Fairfax Ballet will reunite later this month for their annual performances of “The Nutcracker” at George Mason University.
Continuing a tradition that’s now in its eighth year, the two local arts organizations will present two shows of Pytor Tchaikovsky’s holiday staple this Saturday and Sunday (Dec. 21 and 22) at Mason’s Center for the Arts (4373 Mason Pond Drive) in Fairfax.
The performances on both days will start at 4 p.m. Tickets are currently on sale, starting at $44.
Featuring guest solo dancers from the New York City Ballet, the production is typically one of the most popular events of the season for the FSO, which says it’s unique in the D.C. area for including a full, live orchestra.
“We are thrilled to partner with the Fairfax Ballet to bring The Nutcracker to thousands of people of all ages in Fairfax County and across the D.C. region,” FSO Executive Director Jonathan Kerr said in a press release.
More on the upcoming production from FSO:
The Fairfax Symphony Orchestra and The Fairfax Ballet Company showcase renowned guest soloists from New York City Ballet dancing the lead roles this year: Emily Kikta as the Sugarplum Fairy, and Aarón Sanz as the Cavalier and the Snow King. Fairfax Ballet Company member Caroline Musci is featured as Clara, and guest artist Zane Wilders dances the role of the Nutcracker Prince.
The Fairfax Ballet was established in 1971 to develop in each student a love of dance, a strong technical foundation, and an artistic education. Company dancers, along with students from The Russell School of Ballet and professional guest artists are poised to take the stage with this entertaining classic. Performing with the live orchestra presents a unique opportunity for the young dancers. Karla Petry serves as Executive Director of The Fairfax Ballet and owner of The Russell School of Ballet.
“We’re honored to join the Fairfax Symphony for our eighth annual production of The Nutcracker,” said Karla Petry, Executive Director of The Fairfax Ballet and owner of The Russell School of Ballet. “Audiences love this special treat as we welcome our professional guest soloists from premier dance companies together with our local stars! This performance provides an extraordinary learning experience for our Fairfax Ballet Company dancers as a unique opportunity to perform together with a live, professional orchestra on stage at George Mason University’s Center for the Arts Concert Hall!”
Andrea Cook is Artistic Director for The Fairfax Ballet Company. Ms. Cook leads the choreography in one of the most complex theatrical ballets in the Company’s repertory. She is a Fairfax County native and Chantilly HS alum. Her leadership has helped the Company maintain its long-held reputation for high-quality training and service, while building on its performances with new choreography.
This weekend will also bring a performance of Tchaikovsky’s classic ballet by the Virginia National Ballet on Saturday, Dec. 21 at Capital One Hall. It will be the Tysons venue’s third “Nutcracker” production this month, following the touring production “Nutcracker! Magical Christmas Ballet” on Dec. 1 and a show from Ravel Dance Studio this past Sunday (Dec. 15).
