Stepping Out

The magic of The Nutcracker

Performances of the festive ballet continue this weekend

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Eglevsky Ballet’s The Nutcracker
Long Island’s professional dance company, the Eglevsky Ballet, presents its version of the holiday classic. The company, which was founded in 1961 by Andre Eglevsky, who had performed with American Ballet Theater and New York City Ballet, presents a new interpretation from choreographer Laszlo Berdo, formerly of the Boston Ballet, who is now Eglevsky’s artistic director. The company’s 24 dancers are joined by returning guest artists Lia Cirio and James Whiteside, principal dancers with the Boston Ballet and American Ballet Theatre in the roles of the Sugar Plum Fairy and the Cavalier. Aran Bell, star of the acclaimed documentary “First Postion,” is the Nutcracker, along with a cast of 58 young dance students.
Friday, Dec. 21, 7 p.m.; Saturday, Dec. 22, 12 and 5 p.m.; Sunday, Dec. 23, 1 p.m. Tickets start at $27. Tilles Center for the Performing Arts, Rte. 25A, Brookville. (516) 299-3100 or www.eglevskyballet.org or www.tillescenter.org.

Still More Visions of Sugarplums
New York Dance Theatre’s version of the holiday treasure contines this weeked. The staging remains faithful to the tradition of the legendary George Balanchine, with guest artists from Dance Theatre of Harlem, among other troupes. Featured soloists include DaVon Doane and Jehbreal Jackson, both of the Dance Theatre of Harlem. In all, a cast of 80 children, semi-professional and professional dancers bring the ballet to life. The Balanchine tradition is maintained from storyline through choreography, and sets and costumes. This year’s production contains original sequences and new costumes in the famous “’Snow Scene” and “Land of the Sweets,” under the guidance of artistic director Frank Ohman.
Saturday, Dec. 22, 12 and 5 p.m. $35, $28 seniors and children 12 and under. Hofstra University’s John Cranford Adams Playhouse, Hempstead. (888) 695-0888 or (631) 462-0964 or www.ohmanballet.com.