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Press Releases

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

December 7, 2009

ARLINGTON, TEXAS - Through Metropolitan Classical Ballet's Children's Cultural Enrichment program, special condensed version of The Nutcracker ballet have been made available for thousands upon thousands of mostly third grade students from area public and private schools. For most, it was a first time experience. This year, an additional ten thousand children will experience first hand the colorful and exciting sets and costumes, as the world's most cherished fairy tale is brought to life through the captivating choreography of Alexander Vetrov.

The performances will be held at Texas Hall on the campus of the University of Texas in Arlington on December 7th, 8th, and 9th at 10:30 am & 12:45 pm and on the 10th & 16th at 10:30 am. Sponsors are the law firm of Hill Gilstrap, P.C. and the University of Texas at Arlington. Because of the growing interest each year, additional performances are added.

Photo by Marty Sohl

Metropolitan Classical Ballet's Children's Cultural Enrichment program was created in 2000 as a part of its ongoing Artistic Outreach program. The Nutcracker performances create a positive experience in the hearts of the children who attend, inspire smiles and laughter, an appreciation of dance and music, and the motivation to experience more.

The Nutcracker is based on an old German fairy tale, The Nutcracker and the Mouse King, written in 1816 by E.T.A. Hoffmann. Originally choreographed by Marius Petipa, the ballet is set to the wonderful score by Peter Ilyich Tchaikovsky. It premiered on December 18, 1892 at the Maryinsky Theater in St Petersburg, Russia. Metropolitan Classical Ballet's Nutcracker, charmingly choreographed by Mr. Vetrov, is especially captivating for young audience members, who love the wind-up dolls, beautiful costumes and dreamlike magical storyline. Students from the Metropolitan Ballet Academy dance the numerous children's roles. The academy is the official school of the Company.

Metropolitan Classical will also present public performances of The Nutcracker. The delightful full-length performances will be held on Friday, December 18th at 7:30 p.m., Saturday, December 19th at 2:00 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, December 20th at 2:00 p.m.

Tickets range in price from $10 - $30 and are available only through Metropolitan Classical Ballet at (817) 275-0598, or online. Group and individual tickets may be purchased at the administration office by calling (817) 465-4644 or at 500 West Abram Street in Arlington, Texas.

Season sponsors include American Airlines, The University of Texas at Arlington, and the law firm of Hill Gilstrap, P.C..

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Media Note: Further information may be obtained by contacting Mariya Kudyakova at (817) 465-464