Poinsettias and Pointe Shoes: Scenes from the Nutcracker at Phipps

In celebration of Pittsburgh’s Light Up Night festivities, Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens and Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre will bring the magic of The Nutcracker to Phipps’ historic glasshouse on Friday, Nov. 21, with Poinsettias and Pointe Shoes.

This family-friendly event features a sampling of ballet vignettes from Terrence S. Orr’s The Nutcracker and a sneak peek of the rare poinsettias, illuminated evergreens and festive color arrangements of Phipps’ Winter Flower Show. A cast of Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre School’s Pre-Professional students will perform some of the ballet’s most iconic choreography, including the grand pas de deux of the Sugarplum Fairy and Cavalier. As they train for professional ballet careers, many of these next-generation dancers will join PBT company members on the Benedum Center stage as snowflakes, flowers and other supporting roles in PBT’s main-stage production of The Nutcracker.

Each performance will conclude with a meet-and-greet with the Sugarplum Fairy – and other costumed dancers – and photo opportunities for families. Registered guests can also explore Phipps’ gardens and stop by the café for wine and refreshments.