The holiday season is a time for creating cherished memories with loved ones. And one tradition that never fails to weave its enchanting spell is attending a performance of the New Mexico Ballet Company’s The Nutcracker.
For me, the magic is not just in the breathtaking production but in the sweet experience of sharing it with my daughter. I took her for the first time when she was three years old. I’ll never forget twirling with her over and over outside Popejoy Hall after the show was over. Her little red plaid Christmas dress billowed full with each turn of her black patent leather shoes. We’ve gone to the performance many times since. And each time as the snowflakes fall and the Sugar Plum Fairy dances, I can see the wonder in her eyes. For us, it’s the moment that says, “The Holiday season officially starts now!”
There’s something truly special about introducing a child to the world of ballet through The Nutcracker. The New Mexico Ballet Company’s annual performance at Popejoy Hall is a not-to-be-missed spectacle. The ornate costumes, the graceful movements, and Tchaikovsky’s timeless score (played by a live orchestra) create an atmosphere of pure magic.
One of the things I love most about this particular version of The Nutcracker is that they add a bit of New Mexico flair to the performance with flamenco dancers. And because Albuquerque’s a small city, it seems like we always know a member of the cast.
For those looking to experience the magic, the upcoming performances at Popejoy Hall promise to be unforgettable. If you’re ready to see the excitement on your little ones’ faces as the curtain rises and transports you into the Land of Sweets, secure your tickets for an evening filled with wonder and holiday spirit.
This year, the New Mexico Ballet Company will be joined by the New Mexico Philharmonic and current stars of San Francisco Ballet and New York City Ballet to present this holiday classic. The tradition starts Thanksgiving weekend at Popejoy Hall.
Performances will be on November 25, 2023 at 7 pm, November 26, 2023 at 2 pm, December 2, 2023 at 2 pm and 7 pm, and December 3, 2023 at 2 pm. Purchase tickets here.
Here are a few tips if you’re bringing a child to the theatre for the first time.
- Make sure they know the story ahead of time. Read a picture book of the story so the dancing makes more sense to them and they can follow along.
- For small children, Popejoy Hall provides booster seats so they can see the stage better.
- This production uses pyrotechnics which means flashes of light and loud noises.
- Decide whether or not your child is old enough to sit through the 2-hour show. You know your child best. But toddlers and preschoolers may get bored.
- Consider one of the matinees if you’re bringing a younger child. That way no one is up past their bedtime.
- When going to the ballet with children, look for seats on an aisle. Then if you need to slip out during the show, you and your child won’t have to crawl over your neighbors in the darkened theater to exit.
- Listen to The Nutcracker soundtrack so the score will be familiar to your child.
- Prepare your children about what to expect. Tell them they will need to be quiet in a theatre and can’t look at electronic devices. And then get ready to praise them for their good behavior afterward.
- Arrive at the theatre early. I like to get there at least 45 minutes early which leaves time for parking, a bathroom stop, and finding our seats. It’s no fun to feel rushed.
- Popejoy Hall does have concessions to purchase during the intermission. But make sure to have a good meal before you come so all little tummies are full.
The New Mexico Ballet Company not only delights audiences with their performances but also contributes to the community by offering dance classes for both adults and children.
If your child is inspired by The Nutcracker and dreams of dancing on stage, the company’s children’s dance classes provide a fantastic opportunity to nurture their passion.
For adults, whether you’re a seasoned dancer or a beginner eager to explore the world of ballet, the New Mexico Ballet Company’s adult dance classes offer a chance to experience the joy of movement and expression.
The New Mexico Ballet offers classes for ages 3 to adult in ballet, modern, jazz, tap, lyrical, hip-hop, creative movement, and more. The dancers in The Nutcracker spend years perfecting their craft in classes just like the ones the New Mexico Ballet offers.
Check out the dance classes the New Mexico Ballet offers and the schedule of classes here.
