Sugar Plum Fantasies and snow covered dreams come true as Chattanooga Ballet presents their 23rd annual production of Tchaikovsky’s holiday classic The Nutcracker with the Chattanooga Symphony and Opera Orchestra under the baton of Maestro Bob Bernhardt, music director and principal conductor of the Chattanooga Symphony and Opera Orchestra. Performances will be held on Friday, December 10th at 8:00 pm, Saturday, December 11th at 8:00 pm, and Sunday, December 12th at 2:00 pm at the Tivoli Theater.

Over the years Chattanooga Ballet’s production of The Nutcracker has become one of Chattanooga’s most cherished productions enjoyed by over 220,000 people as one of Tennessee’s most attended performing arts events. First presented in 1988 with a cast of sixty dancers, the production has grown to include a cast of over 220 performers, including members of the professional company, guest artists, and dance students from throughout the tri-state area. “The production continues to grow in size, scope, and artistic quality” said Bob Willie, General Director of Chattanooga Ballet. “To keep the production fresh and exciting we continue to upgrade the choreography and enhance the production with nationally acclaimed guest artists.”

The production will also feature its Clara Boutique in the lobby with an array of gifts, including Chattanooga Ballet merchandise, nutcrackers and ornaments. New this year is a limited edition, locally produced 2011 calendar showcasing the ballet’s company dancers and the landscapes of Chattanooga.

Tickets are available at the Tivoli Theatre box office at 423-642-TIXS or online at www.chattanoogaonstage.com. Ticket prices are $18.00 and $15.00 with discounts for children, students, and seniors.