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UNCSA’s “The Nutcracker” is moving to a new space this season

Sugar plum fairies and all the other characters will dance their way to Greensboro this December while the Stevens Center undergoes renovations. It will be the first time the beloved holiday ballet moves outside city limits.

WStoday UNCSA nutcracker

The UNCSA Schools of Dance, Design, Production and Music all have a hand in creating the magic of The Nutcracker.

Photo by UNC School of the Arts

This December, students at UNC School of the Arts will perform their annual showing of “The Nutcracker” at the Steven Tanger Center for the Performing Arts in Greensboro. Their usual venue — the Stevens Center — will be undergoing renovations. City officials in Winston-Salem and Greensboro say the challenge turned into an opportunity to unite the two cities and bring the beloved story to new audiences. Tickets start at $35.

UNCSA students have put on “The Nutcracker” in Winston-Salem since 1966. It’s become a tradition for many families to bundle up and head to the theater in early December to kick off the holiday season. While Greensboro’s mayor said she’s thrilled for the opportunity to host, Winston-Salem Mayor Pro Tem D.D. Adams jokingly reminded her the arrangement is for one year only. The show will return to the City of Arts of Innovation in 2024.

The Steven Tanger Center for Performing Arts is located on North Elm Street in downtown Greensboro, surrounded by restaurants and shops. First-time guests can find a helpful guide here to plan their visit. Audiences this year will get a special treat too — the ballet’s symphony orchestra will be conducted by UNCSA Chancellor Brian Cole.

Make plans to go