OCALA, FL (352Today.com) – Get ready to sprinkle a little extra sparkle on the holiday season. Ocala Metro Ballet Theatre is bringing back its production of the classic ballet The Nutcracker for a second year, and this time they’re welcoming a special guest artist to the stage.
Brazilian-born dancer Emanuel Bracho will join the local company for the performances. Bracho has danced professionally with Dance Theatre of Harlem and the Joffrey Ballet in New York City and currently performs in Memphis, Tennessee. His appearance adds an extra dose of big-stage experience to Ocala’s holiday tradition.
Set to Tchaikovsky’s iconic score, the story follows young Clara as her Christmas gift of a Nutcracker doll whisks her away on a dreamlike adventure through the Land of Snow and the Kingdom of Sweets. It’s the kind of warm, wonder-filled evening that works equally well for longtime ballet fans and families looking for a festive night out.
Performances take place at the Dassance Fine Arts Center on the College of Central Florida campus:
- Friday, Nov. 27 at 6 p.m.
- Saturday, Nov. 28 at 2 p.m. and 6 p.m.
Tickets are $25 for general admission; children 3 and under get in free. They’re available at ocalametroballet.com.
Ocala Metro Ballet Theatre, a local nonprofit led by Artistic Director Macy Comrie, focuses on keeping classical ballet alive in North Central Florida through performances and education. The company’s mission is simple: preserve the art form, inspire the community, and empower the next generation of dancers.
Whether you’re a Nutcracker traditionalist or just looking for something merry and bright to do after Thanksgiving, this year’s production offers a sweet way to kick off the holiday season.