Montgomery Ballet celebrates first full Nutcracker season from new location

The Montgomery Ballet is set to kick off its 2026 production of The Nutcracker and is celebrating its first full Nutcracker season from its new location at 104 Coliseum Boulevard, including an expansion of educational programming.

Almost 2,000 students are expected to participate in its LEAP (Linking Education and Art Performances) program during the 2026 season, said to be a record after approximately 1,600 students took part last year.

The move to the new location represents expanded space for rehearsals, training, performances, and community engagement, said a press release.

"This season represents an exciting new chapter for Montgomery Ballet," said Danny Mitsios, who is the Artistic and Executive Director of Montgomery Ballet. "As we celebrate our first Nutcracker season from our permanent home, we are also expanding our reach across Alabama and beyond.

"Through our performances, educational LEAP programs, and new collaborations, we are sharing the magic of ballet with more communities than ever before. We invite families throughout the region to begin their holiday season with 'The Nutcracker.'"

The first public performances of The Nutcracker will be held at the Montgomery Performing Arts Centre on:

• Nov. 17 at 6 p.m.
• Nov. 18 at 6 p.m.

On Nov. 18 Montgomery Ballet will host a LEAP educational performance at 10 a.m. for students and educators along with an interactive question-and-answer session with company dancers.

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"For many students, a LEAP performance is their first experience attending a professional performing arts event," Mitsios said. "These programs help eliminate financial and geographic barriers while demonstrating how the arts can educate, inspire, and create lifelong appreciation for creativity and culture."

George Corley Wallace Community College in Selma will host the following:

Public performance: Nov. 29, at 6 p.m.

LEAP performance: Nov. 30 at 10 a.m.

Tickets for LEAP performances will $7 for students, schools, and senior centers, while homeschool family tickets will be $12. Public performance tickets will begin at $15.

The press release advised that patrons who are attending performances at the Montgomery Performing Arts Centre can avoid Ticketmaster convenience fees by purchasing tickets directly through the MPAC box office.

Tickets can be purchased at montgomeryballet.org or by calling 334-409-0522.