The International Ballet Classique (IBC) returns to the Neumann University stage with its annual performance of Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker December 13, 14, and 15 with an abridged version for children on December 12. 

It is Christmas Eve at the Stahlbaum house – a large and grand house with the most beautiful tree imaginable. The Stahlbaums are hosting their annual Christmas party, welcoming the arrival of their family and friends. The children, Clara and Fritz, are dancing and playing as they welcome their friends, too.  The party grows festive with music and dance as godfather Drosselmeyer arrives. He is a skilled clock and toy maker and always full of surprises.

The children begin to open gifts when Drosselmeyer presents his to Clara and Fritz.  Although his gift to Fritz is quite nice, he gives Clara a beautiful Nutcracker that becomes the hit of the party. As the evening grows late, the guests depart and the Stahlbaum family retires for the evening.  Clara, worried about her beloved Nutcracker, sneaks back to the tree to check on him, falling asleep with him in her arms.

 As the clock strikes midnight strange things begin to happen. Clara begins shrinking, as her beautiful Christmas tree grows high above her. The toys around the tree come to life while the room fills with an army of mice, led by the fierce Mouse King. 

“There is so much to dazzle the imagination with this classic tale. Dancing dolls, snowflakes, marching toy soldiers and a land of sweets, accompanied by gorgeous costumes and scenery, and some of the most memorable music makes for a wonderful holiday experience,” explained Denis Gronostayskiy, artistic director for IBC. 

The International Ballet Classique is a non-profit corporation and the first and only professional ballet company in Delaware County, serving the Delaware Valley and surrounding areas.

Performances run Friday, December 13, at 7:30 p.m., Saturday, December 14, at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., and Sunday, December 15, at 2 p.m. The children’s abridged version (one hour) is scheduled for Thursday, December 12, at 10:00 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. in the Meagher Theatre, located in the campus Life Center. 

Tickets are $20 for general admission. Students with ID and seniors are $16. The abridged performance costs $6 for general admission and $5 for groups of 15 or more $5. Tickets may be purchased at www.academyballetru.com. For group discounts, call 610-459-9221.