NO NUTCRACKER: American Repertory Ballet has decided to cancel live performances of “Nutcracker” this coming holiday season, due to health concerns about the pandemic. A virtual series of excerpts will be available online. (Photo by Eduardo Patino)

Due to many unknowns about the global pandemic, American Repertory Ballet’s Nutcracker has been canceled for the holiday season. But a virtual series of excerpts will be available for online viewing.

“It was a difficult decision, but our top priority remains the health and safety of our staff, artists, and audiences,” said Executive Director Julie Diana Hench. “Since 1964, American Repertory Ballet’s Nutcracker has been a celebration of community and youthful imagination. We look forward to the day when we can all be together again in-person to celebrate the magic of this professional and joyous holiday tradition.”

While the traditional stage production cannot be performed this year, American Repertory Ballet and Princeton Ballet School will still create a way for students and families to experience the ballet. Featuring professional dancers from American Repertory Ballet, the School’s new Nutcracker Suite will be a virtual series of scene selections and socially distanced choreography performed and recorded in the studio, complete with sets and costumes. 

American Repertory Ballet also plans to increase its outdoor community presence, bringing elements of Nutcracker directly to sidewalks and town squares this holiday season.

Registration is now open for the fall season at Princeton Ballet School, the official school of American Repertory Ballet. Classes begin September 9, offering in-person and online instruction for all levels ages 3 through adult. To learn about fall classes, please visit arballet.org.