“The Nutcracker” is the magical story of a young girl named Clara who is given a nutcracker for Christmas. At the stroke of midnight, the Nutcracker comes to life as a prince. Clara and the prince fight the Mouse King and his army. You will love watching Clara and the Nutcracker journey to the Land of Sweets, where they meet the Sugar Plum Fairy. Throughout the performance, the Grand Rapids Symphony will perform Tchaikovsky’s famous score, including Waltz of the Flowers and Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy.The Grand Rapids Ballet also will offer several special events in conjunction with the performances. Clara’s Nutcracker Party will be held on December 15, 2013 before the 2 p.m. performance. This event includes a brunch, a reading and photo opportunities. The cost is $55 before December 1.

Every matinee performance will be followed by the Sugar Plum Parade. Your whole family will enjoy going on stage and meeting the performers. Audience members also can participate in the Adopt-a-Character program. This program includes an inside look at a rehearsal and a special message that will be printed in the program.

Performances will be held from Dec. 13, 2013 to Dec. 15, 2013 and Dec. 20, 2013 to Dec. 22, 2013. Showtimes are at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Ticket prices range from $20 to $55. Members of the military on active duty can present their military i.d. for two free tickets for one of the Dec. 14 performances. College students may present their student i.d. one hour before showtime to purchase a ticket for $12. Tickets may be purchased at the Ballet Box Office or online through Ticketmaster.

The Grand Rapids Ballet is Michigan’s only professional ballet company. Winner of the ArtServe Michigan Governor’s Arts Award for Outstanding Cultural Organization, the Ballet offers many excellent performances that everyone will love. The Grand Rapids Symphony is one of the nation’s finest regional orchestras. Established in 1930, the Symphony has a long tradition of offering quality educational programs for the entire family. Patrons can enjoy both talented organizations at this year’s performance of “The Nutcracker.”