Brown-Forman Nutcracker Returns

Thanks to a generous gift from the Brown-Forman Corporation, the Louisville Ballet was able to create a completely refreshed and new production. Based on a concept from Artistic Director Bruce Simpson and realized through the imaginations of acclaimed choreographer Val Caniparoli and world-renowned designer Peter Cazalet, this version of The Nutcracker has a decidedly Louisville feel – drawing images like the St. James Fountain and Derby jockeys into the production. Magic elements created specifically for this ballet by master illusionist, Marshall Magoon, complete this amazing experience.

Producing a favorite ballet like the Nutcracker takes a dedicated group of staff and volunteers alike. Including the dancers, stage crew, children’s casts, chaperones and dressers, there are close to 180 people backstage at any given performance. Over 100 children from the Louisville Ballet School, many returning for their second, third or fourth season with this production, contribute their own kind of magic to the stage transforming into mice, soldiers, angels, jockeys and party children.

This reimagined production debuted in 2009 and became an instant hit.

The Brown-Forman Nutcracker runs through Dec. 23 in the Whitney Hall at The Kentucky Center. Ticket prices start at $30 and are available in-person at The Kentucky Center box office, by phone at 502.584.7777 or online at www.kentuckycenter.org.

Special Events

Sugar Plum PartY

Join the children’s casts from The Brown-Forman Nutcracker for holiday fun and festivities at a pre-showSugar Plum Party. $20 per person includes sandwiches platters, chips, sweets table with choice of milk or juice, photos with cast members, special art projects, and a sing-along. Admission to The Brown-Forman Nutcracker requires additional ticket purchase.

• Sunday, Dec. 16 at 11:30 a.m., East Room, The Kentucky Center.

Nutcracker Family Story Time

All ages are invited to a special Nutcracker Family Story Time. Come listen to this classic holiday story read by a dancer from the Louisville Ballet and enjoy some Nutcracker-inspired activities.

• Dec. 13 at the Southwest Branch, 10375 Dixie Highway. Story time begins at 6:30 p.m.

A group of children in The Brown-Forman Nutcracker.

A group of children in The Brown-Forman Nutcracker.

Eduard Forehand performing a trick during rehearsal of The Brown-Forman Nutcracker.

Eduard Forehand during rehearsal of The Brown-Forman Nutcracker.

The Brown-Forman Nutcracker.

The Brown-Forman Nutcracker.

The Brown-Forman Nutcracker.

A group of children in The Brown-Forman Nutcracker.

“Fritz” better known as Liam Boswell, is one of the many children in The Brown-Forman Nutcracker.

A group of children in The Brown-Forman Nutcracker.

Douglas Ruiz during rehearsal for The Brown-Forman Nutcracker.

Douglas Ruiz during rehearsal for The Brown-Forman Nutcracker.

Amanda Diehl is the lead, “Marie” in The Brown-Forman Nutcracker.

Amanda Diehl is the lead, “Marie” in The Brown-Forman Nutcracker.

Eduard Forehand is “Drosselmeier” in The Brown-Forman Nutcracker.

Liam Boswell and Amanda Diehl during rehearsal for The Brown-Forman Nutcracker.