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The Montgomery Ballet traveled to the stage at Greenville High School to perform the beloved Christmas ballet “The Nutcracker” on Dec. 3. This was the company’s sixth year bringing the traditional story to Greenville. According to Montgomery Ballet’s Artistic Executive Director Danny Mitsios, each year the audience members have grown in number. 

“I am extremely thankful to have toured to Greenville for the past six years,” Mitsios said. “Your continuous support has been instrumental in our journey, and we are eagerly anticipating future performances in the Greenville area.”

The story of “The Nutcracker” follows young Clara through her immersive dream where her magical nutcracker doll comes to life, and they travel to the Land of Snow and the Land of Sweets to watch the multitude of candy characters from around the world perform their festive-styled dances, including the graceful and revered Sugar Plum Fairy. 

Local dance teacher Sonya Rice said she and Mitsios spoke about a future collaboration with Sonya’s Dance & Fitness for next season. 

“I enjoyed the cast of dancers from the Montgomery Ballet Company, my old Alma Mater, in their rendition of this beloved classic,” Rice said. “Danny Mitsios is doing an excellent job traveling with his young cast of Dancers throughout central Alabama and bringing this fantastical ballet to all.”

Mitsios extends special recognition to LaVeda Gray, Greenville High School cheerleading coach, for her invaluable collaboration. Gray incorporated the Greenville high, middle and elementary students in “The Nutcracker” performance as the infamous “bonbon” children. They performed tumbling movements such as cartwheels, back and front walk-overs and back-handsprings.

Mitsios said he is grateful to the school board and the Greenville community. 

“These productions could not be possible without the continued support of the Butler County School Board,” Mitsios said. “The success of our productions is a testament to the collaborative spirit of the Greenville community. Thank you for your ongoing support, and we look forward to creating more magical moments together.”

Follow the company’s performance journey at montgomeryballet.org