As the holiday season draws near, a wave of enchanting anticipation washes over the East End. It’s the annual signal that Tchaikovsky’s score is warming up, and the Peconic Ballet Theatre (PBT) is preparing its signature production of “The Nutcracker.” This December, the tradition returns to the stage of the Westhampton Beach Performing Arts Center (WHBPAC), promising an afternoon of classic, whimsical spectacle.
This performance is more than just a ballet; it’s the culmination of months of dedication by young dancers from across both forks. PBT runs a rigorous 12-week program, where students rehearse at the Riverhead studio, mastering the choreography and narrative that brings Clara’s Christmas Eve journey to life. When the curtain rises, audiences see not just dancers, but the fruition of serious local arts training.
The limited run will see four opportunities to witness the transformation — from the Mouse King’s chaotic battle to the sublime beauty of the Sugar Plum Fairy’s court. The performances are scheduled for Saturday, December 13, and Sunday, December 14, at noon and 5 p.m.
For tickets and more information, visit peconicballettheater.com or whbpac.org.