PIttsburgh Ballet Staging ‘The Nutcracker’ at the Benedum; Handmade Arcade at David Lawrence CC (Sat., 12/7/24)

Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre artists Ariana Chernyshev and David O’Matz dance in ‘The Nutcracker.’ (Photo: Michael Henninger)

1) Here comes the ballet that even non-ballet fans enjoy. The Nutcracker provides a huge share of annual ticket sales for ballet companies across the nation, and Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre’s production is among the grandest of all. It was developed by PBT artistic director Terrence S. Orr, who drew in part from the original 1892 choreography by Marius Petipa and Lev Ivanov. But Orr also studied many contemporary versions, then teamed with his PBT colleagues to create a one-of-a-kind synthesis of classical ballet, modern artistry, and stunning stagecraft. (See the background story here.) This Nutcracker is set at an old-time Christmas party in Pittsburgh at the turn of the last century. Then, as we move into the realm of fantasy—with the Nutcracker doll coming to life and leading a cast of adult and child dancers through a visit to the Land of Enchantment—there are dazzling special dances, amazing magic tricks, and breathtaking stage effects. The music of course is by Peter Ilyich Tchaikovsky. Reserve early for PBT’s The Nutcracker. Benedum Center. 2 and 7 p.m. 237 7th St., Cultural District. (M.V.)

2) The Handmade Arcade is like the mall, except that every seller is unique and unpredictable instead of the opposite. The annual craft fair has brought clothiers, printmakers, bookbinders, housewares creators, illustrators, stationery designers, knitters, toy smiths, bath product inventors and other artisans under one roof. Live glass blowing demonstrations, free grab-and-go craft kits, and more will be offered. This year, more than 150 vendors will be on hand, organized into seemingly endless rows in the David L. Lawrence Convention Center. The In Person Holiday Market is where people who pretend they’re too cool for Christmas shopping actually do their Christmas shopping. 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Free, but attendees must sign up for timed tickets. There’s also a virtual catalog this year. 1000 Fort Duquesne Blvd., Cultural District. (E.C. R.H.)

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