Nutcracker Ballet performance for children December 8, 2007

The American Dance Institute brings the enchanting tale of the “Nutcracker” alive during a family-friendly weekend of events at the Rockville, MD studio this December. The American Dance Institute’s Youth Ensemble will perform a condensed version of the “Nutcracker,” which allows children to experience the magic of the classic ballet in an intimate, attention grabbing setting. In addition, the Sugar Plum Extravaganza will offer an interactive introduction to the “Nutcracker” story through dancing, crafts and a “kingdom of sweets,” for children ages three through eight.

The Nutcracker performances will be led by guest dancers from the American Ballet Theater, who will dance the role of the Sugar Plum Fairy and the part of The Prince. The performances will be showcased in the Institute’s intimate, 140-seat world-class facility, where the audience is so close they can feel like a part of the dancers’ artistic athleticism and see the expressions on their faces, a wonderful experience for adults and children alike.

The Sugar Plum Extravaganza on Sunday, December 9th will offer children, ages three through eight, an activity-filled introduction to the “Nutcracker” story and dance. Kids will practice “Nutcracker” plies and pirouettes onstage, where American Dance Institute instructors and students will lead a story dance. The Extravaganza will also feature arts and crafts inspired by the famous ballet, photos taken with the Sugar Plum and tasty treats from the “Kingdom of Sweets.”

The “Nutcracker” performances, priced at $20 for adults and $10 for children (age 12 and under) and seniors (age 55 and up) are scheduled for Saturday, December 8th and Sunday December 9th at 3:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. The Sugar Plum Extravaganza will be held Sunday, December 9th from 11:30 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. The Extravaganza is priced at $25 which includes admission for one child, ages three through eight, and one adult. Children must be accompanied by an adult; each additional adult admission is priced at $25. Tickets for the Nutcracker and the Extravaganza can be purchased by calling 301.984.3003 or visiting www.americandance.org.

Official Website: http://www.americandance.org