Lexington, Kentucky, December 13, 2025
The Kentucky Ballet Theatre will enchant audiences during the holiday season with its annual performance of ‘The Nutcracker’ at the Lexington Opera House. Featuring the KBT Professional Company and over 50 students from the KBT Academy, performances are scheduled for selected December dates. This cherished holiday classic showcases the blend of professional talent and community involvement, affirming Lexington’s commitment to the arts.
Lexington, Kentucky – Kentucky Ballet Theatre Presents ‘The Nutcracker’ at Lexington Opera House
Lexington, Kentucky – The Kentucky Ballet Theatre (KBT) is poised to enchant audiences this holiday season with its annual production of ‘The Nutcracker’ at the historic Lexington Opera House. Scheduled for December 13–14 and 20–21, 2025, this beloved performance will feature the full KBT Professional Company alongside over 50 talented students from the KBT Academy, delivering an unforgettable experience filled with dazzling costumes and Tchaikovsky’s iconic music.
As residents increasingly seek out local cultural events, KBT’s production stands as a testament to the community’s commitment to artistic expression and engagement. The blend of professional and young dancers showcases the strength of Lexington’s artistic scene and offers an opportunity for personal initiative, turning dreams into reality on stage. Events like these not only foster community spirit but also promote local pride in our shared cultural heritage.
Performance Schedule
- December 13, 2025: 2:00 PM & 7:00 PM
- December 14, 2025: 2:00 PM
- December 20, 2025: 2:00 PM & 7:00 PM
- December 21, 2025: 2:00 PM
All performances will take place in the historic 964-seat Lexington Opera House, located downtown. Tickets can be purchased through official sources including the KBT website, the Lexington Opera House website, and the Central Bank Center Box Office. It’s advisable for patrons to buy tickets only through these authorized vendors to guarantee authenticity and prevent issues with counterfeit or inflated prices.
About the Production
‘The Nutcracker’ is a cherished holiday classic that has become a staple in many families’ traditions across the community. The Kentucky Ballet Theatre’s rendition will feature beloved characters such as Clara, Drosselmeyer, the Sugar Plum Fairy, and the Nutcracker Prince, woven together with Tchaikovsky’s essential score. Under the direction of choreographers Norbe Risco and Rafaela Risco, the production promises a vibrant experience for audiences of all ages, celebrating both professional excellence and the enthusiastic involvement of local talent.
Ticket Information
To purchase tickets, please visit the following official channels:
- KBT Website
- Lexington Opera House Website
- Central Bank Center Box Office (open Wednesdays and Fridays from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM)
For group sales or special accommodations, reach out to the KBT office at (859) 252-5245 or via email at [email protected]. Notably, the Nutcracker School Show originally scheduled for December 12, 2025, at 10:00 AM has been canceled due to weather conditions. For the latest updates, check the KBT website or contact the office directly.
About Kentucky Ballet Theatre
Founded in 2001, the Kentucky Ballet Theatre has established itself as Central Kentucky’s premier professional ballet company. The organization passionately pursues artistic excellence while engaging the community through diverse performances and educational programs. Under the visionary leadership of Artistic Director Norbe Risco and Academy Director Rafaela Risco, KBT continues to inspire generations through its impactful presentations and commitment to the arts.
Background on ‘The Nutcracker’
‘The Nutcracker’ was initially inspired by E.T.A. Hoffmann’s story ‘The Nutcracker and the Mouse King.’ The narrative was adapted by Alexandre Dumas to cater to children’s audiences. In 1891, Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky composed the music for a new ballet based on these tales. Despite initial hesitations about its theme, Tchaikovsky’s work has transcended time to become one of the most performed and cherished pieces in the ballet repertoire, influencing generations of dancers and audiences alike.
Contact Information
For more information or to purchase tickets, please visit the Kentucky Ballet Theatre’s official website at www.kyballet.com or contact their office at (859) 252-5245. The KBT office is located at 740 National Avenue, Suite 170, Lexington, KY 40502.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What are the performance dates and times for ‘The Nutcracker’?
The performances are scheduled for December 13–14 and 20–21, 2025, at the Lexington Opera House. Saturday shows begin at 2:00 PM and 7:00 PM, and Sunday shows begin at 2:00 PM.
Where can I purchase tickets for the performance?
Tickets can be purchased through the official KBT website, the Lexington Opera House website, or the Central Bank Center Box Office. It’s important to purchase tickets only through these authorized sources to ensure validity and avoid potential issues with counterfeit or overpriced tickets.
Has the Nutcracker School Show been canceled?
Yes, the Nutcracker School Show, scheduled for December 12, 2025, at 10:00 AM, has been canceled due to weather conditions. For the most current information, visit the KBT website or contact the office directly.
Who can I contact for more information about the performance?
For more information, visit the Kentucky Ballet Theatre’s official website at www.kyballet.com or contact the office at (859) 252-5245. The KBT office is located at 740 National Avenue, Suite 170, Lexington, KY 40502.
Key Features of ‘The Nutcracker’ Performance
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Performance Dates | December 13–14 and 20–21, 2025 |
| Performance Times | Saturday: 2:00 PM & 7:00 PM; Sunday: 2:00 PM |
| Venue | Lexington Opera House, 401 West Short Street, Lexington, KY 40507 |
| Ticket Purchase | Official KBT website, Lexington Opera House website, Central Bank Center Box Office |
| Cast | KBT Professional Company and over 50 KBT Academy students |
| Choreography | Norbe Risco and Rafaela Risco |
| Costumes | Designed by Rafaela Risco |
| Music | Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky’s score |
| Ticket Information | Purchase through official channels to ensure validity |
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