Disclaimer: Thank you to the Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre for sponsoring today’s post. I received compensation/product for this review however all opinions remain my own.

A Holiday Tradition

Pittsburgh is a magical place this time of year with so many seasonal treasures to discover with your family. For many, seeing the Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre’s production of The Nutcracker has become a holiday tradition. This holiday event features a talented cast of dancers, local children and artistic director, Terrence S. Orr.

It was a first-time experience for all of us so we had to prepare ourselves. In addition to reading The Nutcracker storybook, we also stopped into the Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre open house to meet some of the cast members, get a sneak peek of the performance and enjoy a few fun activities. On December 5th, my family and I attended the performance on opening night.

The Benedum Center

Downtown in the Cultural District, the performance took place at The Benedum. We stopped to eat dinner at the Jerome Bettis Grille 36 and then headed in town. Just a heads up- parking is free on Saturdays and weekdays after 4pm!

Once inside we warmly greeted to ushers who helped us to our seats. The Benedum is absolutely gorgeous on the inside so we had to take a minute to look around before the performance started.

Synopsis

First Act
The first act takes place during a night of magic inside the Stahlbaum house (the backdrop is actually modeled after a home that once existed on Fifth Avenue in Shadyside). Inside, guests are busy trimming the Christmas tree, exchanging gifts and dancing.

I was impressed with the larger than life character, The Rat King, with his beady red glowing eyes and long flowing cape. Godfather Drosselmeyer pulled off some pretty amazing magic tricks, too. Nonetheless, there were dozens of talented young children that really caught my eye. I must admit, I don’t know anything about ballet, but I thought they all did a stupendous job!

Intermission
The first act lasted about an hour and then the curtains were drawn for intermission. Guests had 20 minutes to walk freely through The Benedum, take pictures with the Sugar Plum Fairy and purchase snacks/refreshments for the concession area.

Second Act
We found our way back to our seats just in time to enter the Land of Enchantment.
The stage was set as Marie and the Prince were greeted by gifts from the Sugar Plum Fairy for defeating the dreaded Rat King. During the grand festival celebration, dancers from many lands show their gratitude with magnificent gifts of dance. I have to add that my son loved the bumblebees (played by young children in adorable bee costumes).

During the festival celebration, a stunning carousel entered through the top of the stage (another Pittsburgh nod). The twinkling lights and rotating beams, in addition to all the talented dancers on stage, were altogether enchanting.

Initially, I was a little nervous about my 6-year-old son sitting still during the nearly 2-hour performance. I’m glad to report that he was engaged with the performance throughout almost the entire show. There were actually a lot of children in the audience and everyone around us also seemed to enjoy the show (including the 1 ½ year old girl next to us and the 5 year old boy ahead of us). If you’re considering attending a performance with your child, I can only suggest that you use your own discretion.

Planning Your Visit

Are you ready to plan a visit to The Nutcracker performance with your family?

Tickets start at $27, and can be purchased online at www.pbt.org, by calling 412-456-6666 or visiting the Box Office at Theater Square. Groups of eight or more can save up to 50% on tickets by contacting PBT’s Group Sales department atgroupsales@pittsburghballet.org or 412-454-9101.

Performance Dates & Times

• Friday, Dec. 5, – 7:00pm
• Saturday, Dec. 6, – 2 & 7 pm
• Sunday, Dec. 7, – 12:00pm
• Thursday, Dec. 11, – 7:00pm
• Friday, Dec. 12, – 7:00pm
• Saturday, Dec. 13, – 2:00 & 7 pm
• Sunday, Dec. 14, – 12:00 & 4:30 pm
• Thursday, Dec. 18, – 7:00pm
• Friday, Dec. 19, – 7:00pm
• Saturday, Dec. 20, – 2:00 & 7 pm
• Sunday, Dec. 21, – 12:00 & 4:30 pm
• Tuesday, Dec. 23, – 7:00pm
• Wednesday, Dec. 24, – 2:00pm
• Friday, Dec. 26, at 7:00pm
• Saturday, Dec. 27, 2014 at 2:00 & 7 pm
• Sunday, Dec. 28, 2014 – 12:00pm

Sensory-Friendly Performance and Audience Accessibility

Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre presents its second-annual sensory-friendly production of “The Nutcracker,” which is designed for patrons with sensory sensitivities and other special needs, at 2pm Tuesday, Dec. 23, 2014 at the Benedum Center. Accommodations will include designated quiet areas and activity stations in the lobby; lowered light, sound and special effects levels; and opportunities for families and children to familiarize themselves with the production in advance. Tickets for the sensory-friendly performance, which is open to the entire community, are available online at www.pbt.org/sensory-friendly-performances or by calling 412-456-6666.

You can learn more about the Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre you can visit them online or find them on Facebook and Twitter.

The Nutcracker was a great way to kick off our ultimate holiday weekend in Pittsburgh. Learn more about seasonal fun and your chance to win tickets to local attractions!