The Nutcracker

Hartt's Nutcracker is a unique opportunity to see talented young dancers perform in this classic holiday story while dancing to Tchaikovsky's beautiful score.

Since the arrival of Artistic Director and Chair Samantha Dunster, formerly of Orlando Ballet, HCD is continually building our production of Tchaikovsky’s time-honored classic, bringing a fully-staged and professional production of the ballet to the families and community of the Greater Hartford region.  The production’s scenic elements, HCD’s talented young dancers and Ms. Dunster’s charming staging and choreography transport the audience to a magical world, no matter whether it is your first time or your one hundredth! 

Every year, HCD’s production boasts 100+ Hartt dancers between the ages of 5 and 18.  All registered students are invited to audition for the production early in September and participate in rehearsals taking place outside of class time.  They will enjoy and benefit from the experience of the rehearsal process and performing in a fully-staged, professionally-produced ballet.  In addition, former members of the Hartford Ballet, colleagues from the Hartt School Collegiate Division, and local celebrities and dignitaries make special appearances.

For the participating students, this is an enriching experience filled with joy and achievement.  For the audience, this is a wonderful opportunity to see young artists perform a full-length ballet laced with humor, bravery, and sensitivity. It is guaranteed to ignite the child within all of us and invoke the warmth of the holiday season.

Please contact the dance department with any questions you may have about the Nutcracker at (860) 768-6000 or dancedesk@hartford.edu.

The Hartt School Community Division's production of the Nutcracker has been made possible in part by 

Hilton Hartford 
315 Trumbull Street 
Hartford, Connecticut, 06103 
(860) 728-5151