The holiday season in Bergen County wouldn’t be complete without the magic of “The Nutcracker,” and this December, New Jersey Ballet brings its cherished production back to bergenPAC for a weekend of enchantment.
Performances will be held at 1 and 4:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, and Sunday, Dec. 7. Tickets range from $35 to $65 and are on sale now through the bergenPAC box office.
A Beloved Holiday Classic
For more than five decades, New Jersey Ballet’s “Nutcracker” has delighted audiences across the state with its blend of stunning choreography, lavish costumes and Tchaikovsky’s iconic score. Known as the longest-running original professional production in New Jersey, it first debuted in 1971 with international ballet star Edward Villella as the Cavalier.
Since then, the company has staged about 800 performances for more than 1 million viewers, involving more than 5,000 dancers and children. Today, generations who grew up attending the show return with their own children and grandchildren, making it one of the state’s most enduring holiday traditions.
About the Company
Founded in 1958, New Jersey Ballet has built a reputation for artistic excellence and accessibility, presenting world-class ballet across the state for more than 65 years. The company’s repertory balances timeless classics with contemporary works, reaching diverse audiences and inspiring a love of dance in new generations.
Under the artistic direction of Maria Kowroski, a former New York City Ballet principal dancer, the company has expanded its vision. Kowroski has added works by legendary choreographers such as George Balanchine, Jerome Robbins and Christopher Wheeldon, while also commissioning innovative pieces by rising stars including Harrison Ball and Lauren Lovette.
Her leadership has elevated New Jersey Ballet’s prominence, with recent appearances at prestigious venues including Lincoln Center, the Guggenheim and Kaatsbaan Cultural Park.
At bergenPAC
Located at 30 N. Van Brunt St. in Englewood, bergenPAC provides the perfect stage for this holiday favorite. A community landmark and nonprofit arts center, bergenPAC continues to bring world-class performances to northern New Jersey.
Tickets for “The Nutcracker” are available by phone at (201) 227-1030, online at bergenpac.org or in person during box office hours. Walk-up sales are also available two hours before each performance.