Maine State Ballet Presents THE NUTCRACKER, 11/25-12/4

Maine State Ballet's 40th Anniversary production of The Nutcracker brings the beauty and joy of the holiday season to Portland's Merrill Auditorium Friday, November 25 through Sunday, December 4.

This beloved family tradition features live music from the Maine State Ballet Orchestra, gorgeous costumes and stage scenery by Gail Csoboth, and, of course, beautiful dancing by over 300 of the most talented dancers in Maine. This year also marks the farewell performance of Principal Dancer Glenn Davis, who will be retiring from the roles of the Nutcracker Prince and the Cavalier after 20 years.

Due to popular demand, The Nutcracker is expanding to 8 performances. A matinee has been added on Friday, November 25, which will give families an opportunity to see The Nutcracker in the afternoon and then attend the annual tree lighting ceremony in downtown Portland after the show.

Performances of Maine State Ballet's The Nutcracker will be held Friday, November 25 at 2 p.m.; Saturday, Nov. 26 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.; Sunday, Nov. 27 at 2 p.m.; Friday, Dec. 2 at 7 p.m.; Saturday, Dec. 3 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.; Sunday, Dec. 4 at 2 p.m.

Tickets are on sale through Porttix at 207-842-0800, or tickets.porttix.com, or at the Merrill Auditorium box office: 12 p.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Saturday.

Tickets are priced at $21-66, and discounts are available for groups, seniors & children. Friday, Dec. 2 is Student Night. Specially-priced student tickets for that show only can be purchased by calling or visiting the Merrill Auditorium box office.

For more information, call Maine State Ballet at 207-781-7672, or visit www.mainestateballet.org.

Maine State Ballet, based in Falmouth, Maine, is one of New England's leading performing arts institutions and twice named Maine's Best Dance Group by Downeast Magazine. Its two components are the School for the Performing Arts, offering instruction in ballet, tap, jazz and other dance styles to more than 500 children and adults; and the Maine State Ballet Company, comprised of more than 25 professional dancers. Maine State Ballet is a nonprofit organization.