See 'The Nutcracker' this weekend at Sugar Loaf Performing Arts Center

The Warwick Center for the Performing Arts and The Warwick Dance Collective will present a full-length production of “The Nutcracker” this weekend at the newly opened Sugar Loaf Performing Arts Center.

Performances are Saturday, Dec. 7, at 1 p.m. and 6 p.m., and Sunday, Dec. 8, at 1 p.m.

Tickets are available now at warwickperformingarts.com.

This classic winter fairy tale will transport the audience into Clara’s journey through a magical world of brave toy soldiers, dancing snowflakes, and enchanting confections. The production features professional guest artists, members of the Warwick Dance Collective and students from the Warwick Center for the Performing Arts, Northern Academy of the Arts and Fei Tian College.

Featured guest artists include Barrington Hinds (Bill T. Jones/Arnie Zane Dance Company, Stephen Petronio Company, Movin’ Out National Tour), Amber Neff (Suzanne Farrell Ballet, New Chamber Ballet), Damien Johnson (Ballet Black, New Chamber Ballet, Los Angeles Ballet), and Warwick Ballet Theatre alumni Isabel Fernandez and Arianna Henry.

Choreography is by Melissa Padham-Maass, Cindy Henry, Tami Small, Tysan Lerner and Barrington Hinds.

The production is based on The Warwick Ballet Theatre’s original choreography by Cindy Henry. The unique restaging also incorporates authentic Classical Chinese Dance choreography in collaboration with students from Fei Tian College for the Chinese divertissement, as well as a collaboration with professional belly dancer and Warwick Ballet Theatre alumna Holly Wright for the Arabian divertissement.

“These new elements,” said Padham-Maass, “along with spectacular costumes and sets, will bring Tchaikovsky’s classic score to life and enthrall audience members of all ages.”

Ticket holders will also have the opportunity to visit the “Land of Sweets Boutique” before each performance for a ballerina makeover and hot chocolate bar.

Group ticket rates and sponsorship opportunities are available; email info@warwickperformingarts.com for more information.