Hartt School Community Division to Present THE NUTCRACKER, Begin. 12/13

The Hartt School Community Division (HCD) opens its traditional production of Tchaikovsky's The Nutcracker on Friday, December 13, at 7:30 PM. Performances of the traditional production continue on Saturday, December 14, at 2:00 PM and 7:30 PM; and Sunday, December 15, at 2:00 PM. As a special treat this season, the HCD Dance Department also offers the Hartford premiere of Nutty Nutcracker, on Sunday, December 15, at 7:30 PM. Audiences are in for a comical evening with this off-the-wall version of the original Nutcracker.

Hartt's production of The Nutcracker includes two casts from its Pre-Professional and Children's Ballet programs, former dancers from the Hartford Ballet, and surprise cameo appearances by several local celebrities and dignitaries. In total, the cast numbers more than 100 performers.

All performances are held in Millard Auditorium, University of Hartford, 200 Bloomfield Avenue, West Hartford. Tickets are available to the public beginning November 12, 2013. Admission to the traditional The Nutcracker is $30 for adults, $15 for children 12 and under, and $20 for students and senior citizens with ID. Admission to the Nutty Nutcracker is $15 for adults and $10 for children under 12. Call the University Box Office at 860.768.4228 or 800.274.8587 or visit hcd.hartford.edu for more information or to purchase tickets.

Set to Peter IIyitch Tchaikovsky's glorious score, Hartt's The Nutcracker features choreography by Community Division Dance Department's Artistic Director Samantha Dunster, lighting by Production Designer Dewey Strang, brilliant costumes, a Christmas tree that grows to tremendous heights, snow falling, and the ultimate battle between Clara's beloved Nutcracker and his nemesis, The Rat King. Ms. Dunster's choreography maintains the highest traditional quality of this holiday classic and provides an enchanting evening for the whole family.

"I look forward every year to our production of this time-honored tradition," says Ms. Dunster. "The combination of Tchaikovsky's enchanting music, the radiant costumes, stunning sets and lighting, all paired with our immensely talented students, makes for a magical holiday experience for young and old alike."

The Hartt School Community Division (HCD) of the University of Hartford is a comprehensive community arts school that annually provides performing arts instruction to more than 2,000 students. HCD offers a variety of lessons, classes, and performance opportunities in music and dance for students of all ages, experience levels, and abilities. For more information on The Hartt School Community Division, visit www.hcd.hartford.edu.