Last Day for Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre’s ‘The Nutcracker’ (Sun., 12/28/25)

THE NUTCRACKER (ballet) with music by Peter Ilyich Tchaikovsky, choreographed by Terrence S. Orr.  Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre. Through December 28.

For 23 years straight, Pittsburgh Ballet has staged a Pittsburgh-themed The Nutcracker. There are visual references to Heinz, the once-famous Kaufmann’s clock, terrible towels, and many other steel town “easter eggs” to spot on stage. The production is one of the grandest among rival productions in many other cities across the country. And, so, word on the street is this may be the last year yinzers will enjoy this yule time tradition. (Or maybe not?) The production was developed by PBT’s former longtime artistic director, Terrence S. Orr, who drew in part from the original 1892 choreography by Marius Petipa and Lev Ivanov. But Orr also studied contemporary versions, then teamed with his PBT colleagues to create a one-of-a-kind synthesis of classical ballet, modern artistry, and stunning stagecraft. 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 Tchaikovsky, and The Nutcracker is presented this holiday season under the aegis of Pittsburgh Ballet’s current artistic director, Adam W. McKinney. Noon. Benedum Center, 237 7th St., Cultural District. (M.V., C.P.O.)

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