Montana Ballet’s Nutcracker: A cherished tradition

Montana Ballet Company stages the holiday treat Dec. 2-3 in Bozeman and Dec. 10 in Butte

On Stage

Montana Ballet Company, celebrating 39 years in Bozeman, again delivers its original Nutcracker at 2 and 7 p.m. Dec. 3 and 2 p.m. Dec. 4 on stage at the Willson Auditorium. The festive production also travels to Butte for a special performance at the Mother Lode Theatre, 6 p.m. Dec. 10.

New this year, MBC partners with the Heart of the Valley Animal Shelter to promote animal adoptions. As a special treat, a furry friend will join the production.
New this year, Montana Ballet Company partners with the Heart of the Valley Animal Shelter to promote animal adoptions. As a special treat, a furry friend will join the Nutcracker production.Photo © Heart of the Valley Animal Shelter

New this year, MBC partners with the Heart of the Valley Animal Shelter to promote animal adoptions. HOV’s mission is to compassionately shelter the lost and surrendered pets of Gallatin and Madison valleys, and to enhance the lives of people and companion animals through pet adoption and education.

As a special treat, a four-legged furry friend will join the cast and make their stage debut during Montana Ballet Company’s Nutcracker performances.

Once again, the company welcomes exceptional guest artists from across the country who will join MBC’s own company dancers and more than 100 dancers from the community.

Montana Ballet Company also continues to collaborate with the Bozeman Symphony Orchestra playing Tchaikovsky’s beloved score. Maestro Lee Mills, associate conductor of the Seattle Symphony and five-time winner of the Solti Foundation U.S. Career Assistance Award, will conduct.

First performed in the lobby of First Security Bank in 1983, MBC’s Nutcracker is held the first weekend in December and coincides with the Bozeman Christmas Stroll, making it synonymous with the kick-off to the holiday system. This production is a cherished holiday tradition for countless performers and their families and friends, as well as the thousands of audience members who share in the experience year after year.

A treat for the entire family, MBC’s Nutcracker is one of the largest artistic collaborations in the region featuring the talents of master choreographers, distinguished guest artists, accomplished dancers, live musicians, seasoned stage technicians, costume and lighting designers, and a host of dedicated volunteers.

Ticket prices range from $22 to $68 for the Bozeman performances, and since all three sold out in 2021 early purchase is advised. Join the celebration by contacting the Montana Ballet Company at 406-582-8702 or ordering online. All seating is reserved.

For tickets to the Butte performance, call 406-723-3602 or order online.