New York City - On December 9 through December 11 the New York Dance Ensemble, a pre-professional ballet company, is joined by the students of The Conservatory of Ballet and Danse Arts in their annual production of the timeless holiday classic "The Nutcracker" at Southampton High School.

From the moment the curtains part, you will transported to a fantastic world of magic and dance. Join Clara as she goes on a magical journey from her family holiday party, through fierce battles and swirling snowflakes, to the exotic Kingdom of the Sweets where dreams come to life and magic is real. With brilliant sets, amazing effects, dazzling costumes and spectacular dancing, "The Nutcracker" is sure to enchant audiences of all ages.

"The Nutcracker" is a time for promising young dancers to shine. (Courtesy Photo: Danse Arts )

Rising Young Stars Take Center Stage
"The Nutcracker" showcases the depth and range of their young company with choreography by Betteanne Terrell and Megan Cancellieri. From the young children of the school to the principal dancers of the company "The Nutcracker" is a time for promising young dancers to shine. This year two new principal dancers will debut in the premiere role of the Sugar Plum Fairy. Sarah Talmage of East Hampton and Ciena Quinn of Bridgehampton will trade off the leading role, partnered by Leonel Linores a professional dancer from New York City, as well as dancing in other solos throughout the performance. It is an exciting debut that all will enjoy.

"The Nutcracker" will be performed December 9 at 7 p.m., December 10 at 7 p.m. and December 11 at 2 p.m. Join us after each performance with your children for photographs onstage with the dancers. On Sunday at 1 p.m., as a special before the performance treat join some of the dancers in welcoming Santa Claus as he greets children and opens the performance.

Tickets are available for purchase by calling 631-537-1684 and online. Ticket pricing: $15 for Adults (18 and over), $10 for Children (four through 18) and Seniors (60+), Toddlers (three and under) are free. Part of the proceeds from the performance will be going to The American Cancer Society's Relay For Life.