Berks Ballet Theatre Celebrates 50 Years with ‘The Nutcracker’

This holiday season, the Berks Ballet Theatre (BBT) marks a significant milestone by presenting its 50th anniversary production of the beloved classic, “The Nutcracker.” Scheduled for December 20 and 21, the performances will take place at the Schaeffer Auditorium at Kutztown University. Tickets are available starting at $43 through BerksBalletTheatre.com.

The anniversary production aims to celebrate BBT’s legacy while introducing a fresh artistic vision under the guidance of Artistic Director Nathan Bland. Since its inception, BBT has delighted audiences in Berks County with “The Nutcracker,” and this year’s performance promises to continue that tradition with added flair. Audiences can anticipate stunning choreography, vibrant new costumes, and the accompaniment of a full live orchestra — hallmarks of BBT’s productions.

A highlight of this year’s performance is the return of BBT alumna Jessica Bealer, who will dance the role of the Sugar Plum Fairy. Bealer, now a professional dancer with the Rochester City Ballet in New York, trained at the Berks Ballet Theatre Conservatory of Dance. Her return symbolizes the enduring quality of BBT’s training programs and its community spirit. Bland remarked, “Jessica’s return is a beautiful symbol of what this anniversary represents — generations of dancers whose journeys began right here at our studios in Berks County.”

This special production will also feature imaginative updates to the traditional story, including new choreography and exquisite costume enhancements. Audiences will enjoy the debut of the Waltz of the Snowflakes costumes and refreshed designs for the Marzipan and Candy Cane characters, enhancing the enchanting atmosphere of the Land of Sweets.

More than 75 performers will take the stage, including members of BBT’s Pre-Professional Company, Conservatory students, and community participants, alongside professional guest artists. The performances will once again feature live music from the Reading Pops Orchestra, conducted by Dr. Willis M. Rapp, a Kutztown University alumnus, who is celebrating his seventh season with BBT.

In addition to the performances, BBT will host a Sugar Plum Fairy Tea Party on December 3 at 13:30 at the GoggleWorks Center for the Arts in Reading. This festive event will provide guests with a sneak preview of “The Nutcracker,” along with story time, meet-and-greets with costumed characters, crafts for children, and an assortment of sweet treats. Tickets for the tea party are also available through the BBT website.

The Berks Ballet Theatre continues to play a vital role in the cultural landscape of Berks County, fostering talent and bringing the magic of dance to the community for five decades. The upcoming production of “The Nutcracker” promises to be a memorable celebration of this legacy.