This Performance Of 'The Nutcracker' Is The Ultimate Holiday Gift

You've probably seen a performance of "The Nutcracker" before, but if you haven't experienced the American Repertory Ballet's version of the beloved holiday spectacle, you are seriously missing out.

This year, the American Repertory Ballet's professional company will be joined by select students from the Princeton Ballet School to tell the story of a girl named Clara and how a mysterious gift from her Uncle Drosselmeyer brings a fantastical dream world to life. Set to Tchaikovsky's magnificent score, the American Repertory Ballet's "Nutcracker" features thrilling choreography and a talented cast of more than 100 dancers.

"The Nutcracker" isn't just another holiday show, though: The dancing, music and spectacular costumes make going to this show a truly magical holiday experience. And this year, you can score tickets at 10 percent off, using the PatchTickets10 promo code!*

Here five more reasons why seeing this rendition of "The Nutcracker" is the most festive thing you can do this holiday season.

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1. It's a time-honored tradition.

We all know T. A. Hoffmann's tale of "The Nutcracker and the Mouse King," and while there have been adaptations through the years, but the classic story remains the same: Clara's toy nutcracker comes to life and fight a brave battle against a royal rodent. It's Clara, though, who stomps out the Mouse King, and the nutcracker prince brings her to the Land of Sweets to celebrate. Here, Clara is welcomed by the Sugar Plum Fairy and delighted by a dancing cast of magical characters.

The American Repertory Ballet has been telling this story for more than 50 years, making it one of the longest, continuously running "Nutcracker" productions in the country.

2. It's a feast for the senses.

With beautiful dancing, incredible costumes and a classic musical score that has stood the test of time, "The Nutcracker" is a visual and aural treat. You don't have to be a theater buff, either, to be delighted by the sights and sounds of this grandiose production.

3. It's an experience to remember.

The kids might not remember watching "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer" at home on the couch, but who could forget seeing "The Nutcracker" live and in person? This family-friendly production (recommended for ages 8 and up) is the ultimate live entertainment experience.

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4. It's a wonderful way to support the local arts.

Founded in 1963, the American Repertory Ballet's mission "is to bring the joy, beauty, artistry and discipline of classical and contemporary dance to New Jersey and nationwide audiences and to dance students through artistic and educational programs." Your ticket purchase supports this mission and helps ensure future generations can benefit from American Repertory Ballet's dance programs and performances as well.

5. It will get you in the holiday spirit.

If dancing toy soldiers, a Mouse King and a Sugar Plum Fairy aren't enough to make your spirits bright, the childlike joy of Clara and the iconic "Nutcracker" score should do the trick. Whether seeing "The Nutcracker" is your annual tradition or a once in a lifetime experience, this show will have you ready for the holidays and all the joy that comes with Christmas.

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**PatchTickets10 promo code conditions – Purchase an event ticket via Patch.com/tickets and instantly receive 10% off through the use of the promotional code. Limit one discount per ticket order. Promotion code does not apply to taxes, service fees, or shipping. Promotion code is valid at time of check-out only and will not be credited after you have confirmed your purchase. Void where prohibited, taxed or restricted by law (see https://patch.com/terms).