THE NUTCRACKER 2006, A MAGICAL SPOKANE HOLIDAY TRADITION

Nov 15, 2006

For Immediate Release

Contact: ANNIE MATLOW (509) 326-3136

SPOKANE — It's not too early to think about an annual tradition in Spokane. For 28 years, the Spokane Symphony and Peter Tchaikovsky's Nutcracker Ballet have been important parts of December's festivities for families throughout the region. Each year, two and three generations share the magical experience at the beginning of the holiday season.

The Alberta Ballet and Ballet British Columbia with the Spokane Symphony will present four performances at the INB Performing Arts center on Friday, Dec. 8, at 7:30 p.m.; Saturday, Dec. 9, 2 and 7:30 p.m.; and Sunday, Dec. 10, at 2 p.m.

A handsome prince, dancing snowflakes, waltzing flowers and, of course, the Sugar Plum Fairy create a magical world of music and dance just a part of the delightful story of Clara and the Nutcracker.

The Alberta Ballet presents exciting and critically acclaimed choreography to the timeless tale re-created in the traditional Russian style by choreographer Mikko Nissinen. Thirty-seven dancers from the Alberta Ballet and Ballet British Columbia will join more than 50 young Spokane area dancers, who were selected by audition to be a part of the enchanting production.

The Spokane Symphony will play under the direction of Guest Conductor Peter Dala. The role of Clara will be danced by Kelsey Piva and Fritz will be danced by Nora Swoboda.

The Spokane Symphony and River Park Square have combined forces to offer Nutcracker dance performances from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m on Nov. 18-19, Nov. 25-26, Dec.2-3. Tickets will be on sale at the mall performances without as service charge.

Ticket prices range from $17 to $35, children 12 and under are $14, and are available Monday through Friday from, 9:30 a.m.-5:00 p.m. at the Spokane Symphony Ticket Office at 818 W. Riverside, Suite 100 or by calling (509) 624-1200. Tickets are also available on weekends and evenings, with a service charge, at www.spokanesymphony.org, and TicketsWest at 325-SEAT or 1-800-325-SEAT and all TicketsWest outlet.

CALENDAR LISTING:
The Nutcracker with the Alberta Ballet, Ballet British Columbia, and the Spokane Symphony. Friday, Dec. 8 at 7:30 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 9 at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., and Sunday, Dec. 10 at 2 and 7:30 p.m. in the Spokane Opera House. Tickets are $17 to $35, children 12 & under $14. Call the Spokane Symphony Ticket Office at 509-624-1200 or 1-800-325-SEAT, or online at www.spokanesymphony.org.