CINCINNATI BALLET: ROMEO & JULIET

Photo by Cincinnati Ballet

Celebrate Valentine's weekend with one of the world's oldest love stories: Romeo & Juliet, performed by the Cincinnati Ballet. Watch this 420-year-old Shakespearean tale unfold as two star-crossed lovers dance their way into each other's hearts and into their tragic fate. With live music from the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra, the performance is a captivating way to kick off your weekend of romance.

Performances take place at the Aronoff Center February 14-16 at 8:00PM plus a 2:00PM showing on Saturday, February 16.

Photo by Cincinnati Ballet

BALLET & BEER: THE NEW NUTCRACKER

Cincinnati Ballet's $2 million production of The New Nutcracker turns a Christmas tradition into a refreshing, enthusiastic program that will delight both young and old. I had the opportunity to attend the Ballet & Beer rehearsal; a preview of the show before opening night.

The "beer": a root beer float.

Photo op with The Nutcracker.
Image by Bridgett Brady Raffenberg

Victoria Morgan, CEO of Cincinnati Ballet, spent five years planning the idea of a new Nutcracker.The production has always been close to her heart; over 50 years ago she starred as Clara, the lead child role, and has been involved with The Nutcracker ever since.

Image by Peter Mueller, Cincinnati Ballet

With vibrant scenery, elaborate costumes, and more on-stage action than the eye can keep up with, Morgan choreographed her unique take on the classic ballet which was filled with several new twists in the story. The most awe-inspiring is the cast of young dancers in young character's roles, bringing a new joy to a show centered around childhood.

Image by Peter Mueller, Cincinnati Ballet

Image by Peter Mueller, Cincinnati Ballet

 The New Nutcracker runs through December 24 at the Aronoff Center.