Photo: Igor Bulgarin / Shutterstock.com

Halloween was just three short weeks ago and Thanksgiving is still a few days away, but it seems as though everyone is ready to jump into the deep end of the Jingle Bell pool. Perhaps it’s because we missed out on so many holiday traditions last year that we’re eager to welcome them back extra early.

If there was ever a sure indicator that the holiday season is underway, it’s the appearance of the beloved “Nutcracker” ballet. And those wanting the yuletide season to begin already will be happy to know “Nutcracker” season kicks off Thanksgiving weekend. 

To assist you in your search for the perfect performance we’ve created a Nutcracker and Holiday Dance Theme that’s full of dueling mice, dancing snowflakes and sweets that come to life.

Here are a few highlights:

Texas Ballet Theater

If you want to be dazzled in a big way, don’t miss Texas Ballet Theater’s production of Ben Stevenson’s ‘”The Nutcracker.” From the big splashy sets to the glittery costumes, this production is elaborate and won’t disappoint. The glittery seasonal favorite takes the stage in Dallas at the Winspear Opera House Nov. 26 to Dec. 5.  And in Fort Worth, ‘Nutcracker’ performances happen Dec. 10-26 at the equally opulent Bass Performance Hall.

Ballet Frontier

Snowflakes and sweets come alive at Ballet Frontier’s 12th annual production of “The Nutcracker.” The show features a cast comprised of professional dancers and talented young students, dazzling costumes, and world-class choreography. See it be on stage Nov. 26-28 at the historic Granbury Opera House. If you miss it in Granbury, you can catch it Dec. 3-5 at Will Rogers Memorial Center in Fort Worth.

Momentum Dance Company

Journey with Clara on her magic trip as Momentum Dance Company presents an all-new full-length adaptation of E.T.A. Hoffmann’s classic tale, “The Nutcracker and the Mouse King,” set to Tchaikovsky’s score. See it at the Irving Arts Center Nov. 27-28.  The Company is also teaming up with the New Philharmonic Orchestra of Irving for a special collaborative performance of “The Nutcracker Suite.” In this production, live music accompanies selections from the full-length show. It’s also at the Irving Arts Center and happens on Dec. 12

Photo: Igor Bulgarin / Shutterstock.com

Ballet North Texas

Ballet North Texas incorporates German folklore to tell the story of the Nutcracker who triumphs over the evil Mouse King. There are three performances Dec. 2-4 at Moody Performance Hall. BNT is also offering a special sensory-friendly version of “The Nutcracker” on Dec. 4 at 2 p.m. This show is especially for those with sensory sensitivities, autism spectrum disorder, or other special needs. Appropriate changes will be made to the performance to create a welcoming and safe space for all in attendance.

Tyler Junior College

Tyler Junior College Academy of Dance marks its 33rd anniversary this year of performing “The Nutcracker” in East Texas. Joining the cast of over 150 TJC and community performers for this production are Nayara Lopes and Arian Molina Soca from Philadelphia Ballet in the roles of the Sugar Plum and her Cavalier. And, to make the show even more dynamic, the East Texas Symphony Orchestra will be playing live for each show. See this extra-special production Dec. 3-5 at the brand new Rogers Palmer Performing Arts Center on the campus of Tyler Junior College. 

North Central Ballet

North Central Ballet is putting a spin on the holiday classic by presenting its version of “The Nutcracker” in an outdoor setting this year. That’s right, bring your quilts, coolers, and hot beverages and snuggle in for “Nutcracker in the Park” at Meadowmere Park in Grapevine, Dec. 3-5.

Dallas Ballet Company

Dallas Ballet Company is celebrating its 35th year performing the holiday ballet. Their version of “Nutcracker” includes elaborate sets, costumes, and a cast of more than two hundred students from the Dallas Ballet Company and the Dallas Ballet Center, and guest performers from the San Francisco Ballet and the Joffrey Ballet. See it at the Granville Arts Center in Garland Dec.3-5 and again, Dec. 10-12. Don’t wait to buy tickets because this popular Nutcracker has traditionally sold out before the curtain opens.

Avant Ballet

Celebrate the season with Avant Ballet’s trip to the Land of Sweets as seen through Clara’s eyes. Paul Mejia’s full-length production of “The Nutcracker” is accompanied by a live orchestra conducted by Brad Cawyer. You’ll have four performances to catch the magic– Dec. 9-12–at Moody Performance Hall in Dallas.

Dallas Black Dance Academy

Dallas Black Dance Academy students take the classic story of Clara’s visit to the Land of Snow and Sweets and “jazz up” select scenes with Duke Ellington’s “Nutcracker Suite.” “Espresso Nutcracker” happens Dec. 11 at the beautiful Majestic Theater in downtown Dallas. It’s a one-night-only event so get your tickets early.

Denton Festival Ballet

Dancers from Oklahoma, Colorado, Ohio, New York, Europe, and 30 communities in the north-central region of Texas make up Denton’s Festival Ballet of North Central Texas. Catch the company’s magical production of “The Nutcracker” Dec. 17-19 at Denton High School in Denton.

Collin County Ballet Theatre

Collin County Ballet Theatre’s “Nutcracker” returns to the stage Dec. 21 & 22 at the Eisemann Center in Richardson. Guest artist Skylar Brandt from American Ballet Theatre joins CCBT as the Sugar Plum Fairy. To make this Nutcracker even more special, the show will also be accompanied live by the Plano Symphony Orchestra.