The Nutcracker

The Nutcracker Ballet is based on the story "The Nutcracker and the King of Mice" written by E.T.A. Hoffman.  Although what is seen on the stage today is different in detail from the original story, the basic plot remains the same; The story of a young German girl who dreams of a Nutcracker Prince and a fierce battle against a Mouse King, ending in the Land of Sweets. 

When Marius Petipa had the idea to choreograph the story into a ballet, it was actually based on a revision by Alexander Dumas, a well known French author.  His version reflects more of what we have come to love as the Nutcracker Ballet.

Midland Festival Ballet has continued to bring the beauty of ballet to the Basin with this traditional production, involving local talent alongside a handful of guest artists from some of the nation’s top professional ballet companies.

Open to all Permian Basin dancers ages 5+, The Nutcracker has been an annual tradition for 28 years!

Performances will be held on December 9 & 10, 2023 at the Wagner Noel Performing Arts Center.

Auditions are August 25 &26, 2023.

What To Know Before You Go

• Ballet is story-telling through dance, so there are no words in this live theatre production!

• Accompanied by the West Texas Symphony, the entire ballet is done with live music, a favorite tradition.

• Wagner Noël Performing Arts Center has a select number of prohibited items that cannot enter the facility. These items include but are not limited to:

  As of January 1, 2022, we have a clear bag policy. Our clear bag size limit is 12"x12"x6" and wallet size limit is 8"x5."

  • This policy includes diaper bags.

  • The bag must be clear, versus iridescent or a color shade.

  • If you need a bag you can purchase one in advance through our Box Office (Wednesday - Friday 1 - 5 PM) or by appointment by calling the Box Office at 432-552-4437 Monday - Friday 9 AM - 5 PM. Wagner Noël PAC clear bags are $10.

  • Wagner Noël PAC clear bags can also be purchased the night of the show at will call.

  • No outside food or drink allowed.

  • No flash photography allowed during the performance.