Fifteen Years and Still Nuts About ‘The Nutcracker’

Peconic Ballet Theatre will mark the 15th anniversary of its holiday production of Tchaikovsky’s “The Nutcracker” at the Westhampton Beach Performing Arts Center on Saturday and Sunday, December 13 and 14, at noon and 5 p.m.

What began in 2010 as a small production has developed into a long-running seasonal tradition for PBT dancers, families and the East End community.

“I’m grateful for the support and trust that have allowed us to continue creating on stage year after year, and I offer a thank-you to everyone who has helped make this production what it is today,” said Christiana Bitonti-Fisher, artistic director of Peconic Ballet.

Peconic Ballet Theatre’s version of “The Nutcracker,” first staged in 2010, is known for its storytelling, choreography and the work of its young dancers. Over the past 15 years, thousands of audience members have attended the production.

Founded in 2009, Peconic Ballet Theatre has grown from a local studio into a center for pre-professional dance training on the East End. Under Bitonti-Fisher’s direction, the theater has expanded its performance repertoire and established a presence in the community through its training programs.

“Celebrating fifteen years of ‘The Nutcracker’ is meaningful,” Bitonti-Fisher said. “Many dancers have passed through this production — from young children discovering the stage for the first time to advanced students developing as performers. This year’s show acknowledges their work and the role this story plays each holiday season.”

This year’s anniversary production will include updated choreography, new costumes and traditional scenes such as the Snowflakes, the Waltz of the Flowers and the Land of Sweets. The performance will take place on the WHBPAC Mainstage, featuring PBT students who train year-round for the show.

Tickets are available at whbpac.org, by calling the box office at 631-288-1500, or during regular business hours. Westhampton Beach Performing Arts Center is at 76 Main Street in Westhampton Beach.