Hilton Head Dance Theatre to present annual ‘Nutcracker’ this November

The Hilton Head Dance Theatre will mark its 40th anniversary season this fall with its annual production of “The Nutcracker,” opening Friday, Nov. 14th, at the Seahawk Cultural Center.

The holiday classic will run for six performances through Sunday, Nov. 23rd, continuing a local tradition that began in 1985 when the company first brought “The Nutcracker” to Hilton Head Island. Artistic directors Karena Brock-Carlyle and John Carlyle, who have led every production since its debut, will again oversee the staging.

The ballet tells the story of a young girl named Marie who receives a magical nutcracker on Christmas Eve, leading her into a dreamlike adventure filled with dancing snowflakes, a battle with the Mouse King, and the Land of Sweets.

This year’s cast will feature guest artist Will Scott performing the Grand Pas de Deux with Sarah Tiller and Sara Beth Vergakis in alternating shows. Emmy Ott and Kylah Arnholt will share the role of the Snow Queen, appearing alongside Jamal Edwards as the Snow King. Georgia Denckhoff and Vergakis will alternate as the Sugar Plum Fairy, with Tiller and Denckhoff sharing the role of the Dew Drop Fairy.

Performances begin at 7:30 p.m. on Nov. 14th, 15th, 21st and 22nd, with matinees at 2:30 p.m. on Nov. 16th and 23rd. Tickets are $30 for adults, $25 for seniors, and $20 for children 18 and under.

For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www.hiltonheaddance.com