A holiday tradition with a magical Michigan twist!

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Join young Hattie and her family as they celebrate their first holiday party at their new home, the historic Kalamazoo House, nestled in the heart of downtown. The joy of the season is in the air, with twinkling lights glowing in Bronson Park, carolers strolling through the snow-dusted Kalamazoo Mall, and a sense of magic that only a Michigan winter can bring.

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But the night takes a mysterious turn when a surprise guest arrives with an enchanted gift: a Nutcracker for Hattie. That evening, unable to resist one more glimpse, Hattie sneaks downstairs and is swept into a wondrous dream.

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Before her eyes, her Nutcracker comes to life to battle an army of life-sized mice led by a fierce Mouse Queen. Hattie’s bravery helps break the spell, transforming the Nutcracker into a Prince who whisks her away on a journey through the Magnificent Pines, where Whitetail Deer roam under the moonlight and the icy breeze of Lake Michigan carries them into the clouds.

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They soar with Michigan Snowflakes into the enchanting Land of the Sweets, where they are welcomed by the Sugar Plum Fairy, the Dew Drop Fairy, gentle Mourning Doves, and fluttering Monarch Butterflies.

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To honor her courage, Hattie is gifted a vision of Kalamazoo’s bright future and a feast of Michigan’s favorite holiday treats: donuts, Blue Moon ice cream, gingerbread, candy canes, and lollipops.

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As Apple Blossom flowers dance around her and dawn begins to break, Hattie and the Prince share one final, heartfelt dance. The Sugar Plum Fairy gently tells Hattie it’s time to return home but leaves her with a final gift: a magical key to the Land of the Sweets, and the promise that she can return whenever her heart leads her there.

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Hattie wakes at home beside her Nutcracker... but beneath her tree lies the key.

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Was it all a dream? Or has Hattie unlocked a new world forever?

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Performances are held December 6th and 7th at 2:00pm at Comstock Community Auditorium

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We  are proud to include Special Guest Artists:

Matthew Rusk as the Nutcracker Prince — Professional Dancer with St. Louis Ballet

Seyong Kim as Drosselmeyer — Renowned choreographer, dancer, and Western Michigan University Professor of Dance

Tickets go on sale in September!

Stay tuned for updates, sneak peeks, and behind-the-scenes magic as we prepare to bring this enchanting Kalamazoo tradition to life.

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Whether you're a lifelong ballet lover or discovering the magic for the first time, The Nutcracker Kalamazoo is a festive celebration for the whole family.

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