Students performing in community production of ‘The Nutcracker’

“The Nutcracker” ballet is a classic part of the Christmas season. Ballet companies throughout Birmingham will be performing the story of two children who accompany the Nutcracker Prince through a fantastic world of Sugar Plum Fairies and Mouse Kings. Stevan Grebel, owner of the Stevan Grebel Center for Dance, has been directing performances of “The Nutcracker” since 1970, when he worked with the Alabama Ballet. On Dec. 14 and 15, Grebel’s Alabama Youth Ballet Company, part of his dance center, will put on a community version of the same ballet he first directed over 40 years ago.

The students at the Grebel Center for Dance have been rehearsing for their ninth annual “Nutcracker” since September. Their show will feature a little of Grebel’s unique interpretation, including snowflake costumes from the original 1970 production, but audiences will still recognize the beloved story and famous score by Pyotr Tchaikovsky. 

“The music is beautiful,” said Deborah Grebel, co-owner of the Grebel Center for Dance. “I like the feeling that you get over the holidays when you hear the music and go to see ‘The Nutcracker.’ It’s just a really good family event.”

Grebel said that the performance is unique because it is a “teaching tool” for the students and community performers rather than a professional production. 280 residents may recognize several young performers in the ensemble cast, including Kate Knowles, Ellie Findley, Alice Goff, Kathryn-Taylor Sisk and Claire Killian from Oak Mountain Intermediate and Middle and Reena Ramani from Bruno Montessori.

“The Nutcracker” ballet will be performed Saturday, Dec. 14 at 7 p.m., and Sunday, Dec. 15 at 3 p.m., at the Pelham High School Theatre at 2500 Panther Circle. Tickets are $10 or $15 for orchestra seating. For more information, contact the Grebel Center for Dance at 987-7234 or visit alabamayouthballet.info.