Kick Off the Holidays with Studio West’s Nutcracker —Thanksgiving Weekend ONLY!

Studio West Dance Theatre invites families to kick off the holidays with the return of its enchanting production of “The Nutcracker”, performed Thanksgiving weekend ONLY at the Washington Center for the Performing Arts.

Featuring nearly 200 local dancers, this enchanting production transports audiences from Clara’s lively Christmas Eve celebration through a snow-covered forest to the magical Sugar Plum Kingdom. With exquisite costumes, professional sets, and a blend of classic and playful storytelling, Studio West’s Nutcracker has become a cherished South Sound tradition for over 15 years.

"We love that our production of The Nutcracker has become such a meaningful tradition for so many families," says Co-Director Mc Piper. "There is something magical about gathering together over Thanksgiving weekend to officially share in and welcome the holiday season with this beautiful performance."

Studio West Dance Theatre’s Nutcracker not only entertains ticket holders but also fosters artistic growth among local youth and strengthens community bonds through dance education and outreach programs.

"I started dancing at Studio West at age three and this will be my 10th Nutcracker. After years of hard work and dedication, being cast in the role of the Sugar Plum Fairy for my final Nutcracker is a dream come true.” Says Kate Abbott, a senior at Olympia High School. “It is so special to see the excitement in the eyes of the young dancers. I remember that feeling, and I hope I can inspire them as they look ahead to their own moment in the spotlight.”

The Nutcracker uniquely serves as the bridge between intensive studio training and the professional stage. It’s a powerful experience where students like Kate Abbott contribute directly to the professional community, learning to manage the rigor and thrill of a full production run. This commitment to developing artists is what ensures that the art form itself remains robust and relevant for decades to come.

This essential holiday experience filled with Tchaikovsky’s enchanting score and breathtaking choreography is what transforms a local production into a vital community anchor reminding us of the power of live, shared storytelling. "Our mission is to keep the curtain rising on live performance, so this timeless art form endures, especially when we live in such a digital era," says Co-Director Stephanie Wood-Ennett. "To be a part of the energy of a live show is part of our human make-up, and it’s important. It also keeps our dancers connected with real life and not just on their screens, but having real, meaningful experiences. The art of theater needs to stay alive and performing in and/or watching The Nutcracker is a wonderful way to do exactly that."

Families with young attendees can make the day even more memorable by attending “Clara’s Nutcracker Party”. This magical pre-show event takes place one hour before each matinee performance. Young guests meet cast members, enjoy crafts and treats, and take keepsake photos. Tickets for Clara’s Party are $24 per child, with free admission for accompanying adults, performance tickets are sold separately.
Reserve your seats now and join us Thanksgiving weekend to experience the magic that has captured Olympia’s heart for almost two decades. Create memories that will last a lifetime and start (or continue!) a family tradition with Studio West Dance Theatre’s Nutcracker. All performances and pre-show events take place at the Washington Center for the Performing Arts, located in downtown Olympia. Tickets are available now at www.washingtoncenter.org/organizer/studio-west-dance-theatre or by calling (360) 753-8586.

STUDIO WEST DANCE THEATRE NUTCRACKER PERFORMANCES:
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 28
• Performances – 2 p.m. and  7 p.m. ($24–$42)

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 29
• Performances – 2 p.m. and  7 p.m. ($24–$42)

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 30
• Performances – 1 p.m. & 5 p.m. ($24–$42)