The Nutcracker, an Omaha holiday tradition, has found new life thanks to collaboration between Omaha Performing Arts and The Rose Theater.

Together they will present Aspen Santa Fe Ballet’s The Nutcracker at the Orpheum Theater Friday, December 3 through Sunday, December 5, 2010.

“This collaboration with The Rose assures that Omaha can enjoy the holiday favorite for another year,” said Joan Squires, president of Omaha Performing Arts. “Omahans are in for an exciting treat
because Aspen Santa Fe Ballet’s Nutcracker features choreography that combines traditional and contemporary elements, including cirque-style aerialists.

From their thrilling dance to the scrumptious costumes and sets, this company brings great energy and versatility to this timeless holiday favorite,” she said.

“The Nutcracker has been such a large part of many Omahans’ holiday celebrations, so we’re pleased to see the tradition continue,” said Julie Walker, managing director of The Rose. “This partnership maintains the commitment to local youth,” she added. ” We’re excited to be working with Omaha Performing Arts to bring members of Omaha’s dance community together with Aspen Santa Fe Ballet.

The chance for local performers to dance with this acclaimed ballet company is a tremendous opportunity for their careers,” she said.

This collaboration between Omaha Performing Arts and The Rose continues the tradition of using local youth in the production. Aspen Santa Fe Ballet’s Artistic Director Tom Mossbrucker and Executive
Director Jean-Phillipe Malaty will hold auditions for 60 roles and will select more than 100 youth to participate in this beautiful production.

Auditions for these children’s roles will be open to all interested youth and dates will be announced later this year. Additionally, the newly formed professional dance company Ballet Nebraska will manage rehearsals, and help prepare the local participants for the
production.

Ballet Nebraska will also reach out to area schools and provide educational programming to more than 20 area schools prior to their attending the student matinee performances.

Aspen Santa Fe Ballet is a critically acclaimed, internationally recognized dance company and one of the largest dance-only performing troupes in the country.

The company’s signature style has encompassed a far-reaching aesthetic vision, incorporating a wide range of dance elements executed with pristine technique and incomparable flair.

Tickets will be on sale to Omaha Performing Arts and The Rose Theater subscribers during the 2010-2011 season drive.

Single tickets will be available for purchase later this year with ticket prices ranging from $25 to $65.