The “Great Russian Nutcracker” will return to the West Virginia University Creative Arts Center for one night only on Dec. 11.

Showtime is set for 7:30 p.m. and tickets are on sale now at the Mountainlair and Creative Arts Center Box Offices, ticketmaster.com and by phone at 800-745-3000 or 304-293-SHOW.

The “Great Russian Nutcracker” is a holiday tradition for families in more than 70 North American cities, and the show typically sells out in Morgantown. Wearing intricately detailed costumes, many adorned with Austrian Swarovski crystals, the Moscow Ballet’s classically trained dancers and corps de ballet bring Tchaikovsky’s master score to life.

Young and old alike will be transfixed by the Dove of Peace, which is created by two dancers working in tandem to create the dove’s 20-foot wingspan. Also unique to this production are dancers representing the Russian folk legends of Father Christmas (Ded Moroz) and the Snow Maiden (Snegurochka), who escort Masha and the Nutcracker Prince to the Land of Peace and Harmony. The show features life-size Matrushka dolls and whimsical 10 feet tall silk puppets.

“The New York Times’” chief dance critic calls this performance a “knock-out—expansive—elegantly generous.”

Tickets start at $46. Tickets may be purchased at the Mountainlair and CAC Box Offices, online at www.ticketmaster.com or by phone at 304-293-SHOW and 800-745-3000. WVU students may purchase tickets for $28 at the campus box offices with valid WVU Student I.D. (Limit one discounted ticket per valid WVU ID. Some restrictions may apply).

This event is produced by WVU Arts & Entertainment. For additional event information, call 304-293-SHOW or visit events.wvu.edu. Stay connected with the latest event updates through Facebook, Twitter and Instagram by following @wvuevents.

-WVU-

ks/11/19/14

CONTACT: Kristie Stewart-Gale, WVU Arts & Entertainment
304.293.8221, Kristie.Stewart-Gale@mail.wvu.edu

Follow @WVUToday on Twitter.