The Empire Brass Quintet spreads some holiday cheer in Freeport

Holiday Stage

Empire Brass Quintet
Share some holiday spirit with the internationally renowned Empire Brass Quintet, when the distinguished musicians perform this weekend. The ensemble’s five members – all of whom have held leading positions with major American orchestras – enjoy an international reputation as North America’s finest brass quintet. Renowned for their brilliant virtuosity and the unparalleled diversity of their repertoire, the quintet will play selections from Prokofiev, Mozart, Handel and Tchaikovsky, at this festive concert.
Saturday, Dec. 18, 8 p.m. $20. Freeport High School, 50 S. Brookside Ave., Freeport. (516) 223-7659 orwww.freeportconcertassociation.com.

The Nutcracker

New York Dance Theatre’s version of the seasonal classic, in its 29th season, follows in the tradition of the legendary George Balanchine, with guest artists from New York City Ballet and MOMIX, among other troupes. This year’s featured soloists include former New York City Ballet soloist Arch Higgins; Nicole Loizides, principal dancer with MOMIX; DaVon Doane, of the Dance Theater of Harlem; and Eric Ragan, formerly of the Suzanne Farrell Ballet. The Balanchine tradition is maintained from storyline through choreography, and sets and costumes. It features original scenes and sequences, created by artistic director Frank Ohman, a former soloist with the New York City Ballet..
Friday, Dec. 17, 11 and 7 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 18-19, 12 and 5 p.m. $35, $28 seniors and children 12 and under.; $18 for Dec. 18 11 a.m. performance Hofstra University’s John Cranford Adams Playhouse, Hempstead. (888) 695-0888 or (631) 462-0964 or www.ohmanballet.com.

Still More Nutcracker
Long Island’s professional dance company, the Eglevsky Ballet, presents yet another version of the holiday treat. The company breaks with tradition this year as it unveils a new interpretation from emerging choreographer Laszlo Berdo, formerly of the Boston Ballet. Eglevesky Ballet’s 27 dancers are joined by guest artists Lia Cirio and James Whiteside, principal dancers with the Boston Ballet, who dance the roles of the Sugar Plum Fairy and the Cavalier.
Saturday, Dec. 18, 1 and 7 p.m.; Sunday, Dec. 19, 1 p.m. Tickets start at $35. Tilles Center for the Performing Arts, Rte. 25A, Brookville. (516) 299-3100 or
www.eglevskyballet.com.