Dorrance Dance: The Nutcracker Suite

Dorrance Dance: The Nutcracker Suite transforms the holiday classic into an exuberant tap-dance celebration. Set to Duke Ellington and Billy Strayhorn’s jazz interpretation of Tchaikovsky’s score, the production blends familiar seasonal tradition with rapid-fire footwork, spirited dance battles and a full ensemble of high-energy performers.

Created by tap artists Michelle Dorrance and Josette Wiggan in collaboration with Hannah Heller, this lively, swinging reimagining features the three artists alongside a fleet-footed cast. A post-show conversation with cast members will follow the Friday evening performance.

When: Friday, December 11, 2026, at 8:00 p.m.; Saturday, December 12, 2026, at 3:00 p.m.

Showtimes: The Friday, December 11 performance includes a post-show Q&A with members of the cast.

Tickets: Tier 1: $65 plus a $5 booking fee; Tier 2: $50 plus a $5 booking fee; Tier 3: $35 plus a $5 booking fee. Student/youth tickets are $25 for Tier 1 and $20 for Tiers 2 and 3.

Lineup: Michelle Dorrance, Josette Wiggan and Hannah Heller, with a full company of high-energy tap dancers.

Venue: Kay Theatre, The Clarice Smith Performing Arts Center.

Seating: Reserved seating with multiple price levels.

Accessibility: Wheelchair-accessible seating, size-inclusive seating, large-print programs, assisted-listening devices, sensory packs for adults and children, and quiet spaces are available upon request. ASL interpretation, audio description and captioning may be available for select events or by patron request at least six weeks in advance.