DANBURY — The holiday season is about to become even more magical, when Danbury Music Centre presents The Nutcracker accompanied live by Danbury Symphony Orchestra.

This highly anticipated production, now in its 57th year, will take place at Danbury High School Friday through Sunday, December 13-15.

The Nutcracker has long been a beloved holiday tradition, enchanting audiences with its story of Clara’s magical journey to the Land of Sweets.

The Danbury Music Centre’s production has dazzling choreography, stunning costumes, and spectacular sets designed to transport audiences into the heart of a winter wonderland, making this a must-see event for families and dance enthusiasts alike.

Under the direction of Arthur Fredric and Lisa Denton, the production features a talented cast of over 200 dancers and musicians from surrounding communities, with Newtown’s Kailyn Lahey in the principal dancer role of Clara.

Additional Newtown dancers include Alina Bolf, Harper Brundage, Allison Estes, Brooke Estes, Zoe Giordano, Margaret Grasso, Sienna Guaragno, Violet Hughes, Olivia Ortner, Vivian Sawyer, Zoe Shapiro, Fiona Shaw, Ruth Tepper, and Sadie Tepper.

In the orchestra pit, audiences will hear Newtown residents Donna and Chris Locke, and Sheila Doherty.

The production staff from Newtown includes Amy DeLoughy as company manager, Dody Flynn as associate choreographer, and Marya Gaiser as assistant costume coordinator.

The Danbury Music Centre Nutcracker is an unforgettable experience for audiences of all ages. Having a live orchestra led by Maestro Ariel Rudiakov is a dream come true for dancers and community. The collaboration adds a layer of depth and emotion to the performance that cannot be replicated with recorded music. It’s a magical holiday experience for all.

Performances are scheduled for Friday evening at 7:30, and Saturday and Sunday afternoons at 3. Tickets range from $12.50 to $39.50 each.

For further information and ticket purchases, visit danburymusiccentre.org.