The International Ballet Theatre presents ‘The Nutcracker’

Visiting Russian dancers Dmitry Zavalishin and Maria Makarenko from the Kirov Ballet in St. Petersburg will lead the cast in International Ballet Theatre's classical production of "The Nutcracker" through Dec. 23 at the Meydenbauer Center in Bellevue. IBT's production honors the original style and character of the ballet as it was first created by Tchaikovsky and Marius Petipa in St. Petersburg in 1892. This holiday standout is steeped in Russian tradition, featuring museum quality backdrops, exquisite costumes and premier guest artists. IBT, now in its ninth season, is committed to building a unique and heartwarming tradition for audiences on the Eastside for years to come. In addition to the guest artists from Russia, the cast also features local favorite comedian and actor Won Israel in the role of Herr Drosselmeier. IBT company members from Kirkland include Melanie Anderson as Snowflake and Russian; Sarah Cook as Snowflake and Chinese; and Alison Epsom as Waltz of the Flowers Soloist and Snowflake. Pre-professional students from Kirkland include Audrey Robinson as Snowflake, Butterfly and Waltz of the Flowers; and Maddy Tucker as Snowflake, Butterfly and Waltz of the Flowers.

December 12, 2009 9:33 pm

Visiting Russian dancers Dmitry Zavalishin and Maria Makarenko from the Kirov Ballet in St. Petersburg will lead the cast in International Ballet Theatre’s classical production of “The Nutcracker” through Dec. 23 at the Meydenbauer Center in Bellevue.

IBT’s production honors the original style and character of the ballet as it was first created by Tchaikovsky and Marius Petipa in St. Petersburg in 1892. This holiday standout is steeped in Russian tradition, featuring museum quality backdrops, exquisite costumes and premier guest artists.

IBT, now in its ninth season, is committed to building a unique and heartwarming tradition for audiences on the Eastside for years to come.

In addition to the guest artists from Russia, the cast also features local favorite comedian and actor Won Israel in the role of Herr Drosselmeier.

The following performances will be held at the Meydenbauer Center in Bellevue: 7:30 p.m. Dec. 18; 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Dec. 19; 2 p.m. Dec. 20; 7:30 p.m. Dec. 22; and 2 p.m. Dec. 23. Tickets are $50 adults, $40 seniors/students and $25 children under 12. For tickets, visit brownpapertickets.com or call 800-838-3006.