Johnson City Symphony Orchestra hosts performance of 'The Nutcracker'

The Johnson City Symphony Orchestra will be presenting the performance of "The Nutcracker, Ballet in Two Acts" in lieu of the holiday season.Sarah Lane, general manager and executive manager of JCSO, said this year's rendition of "The Nutcracker" is different. The performance will include both acts of the Christmas classic and a partnership between the East Tennessee Ballet Academy, with the dancers being directed by Cynthia Bernshuasen."It's going to be really exciting because we have live dancers coming," Lane said. "She hires professionals to do some of the bigger roles and we're working with students, so it's going to be a great collaboration."Lane added the event not only gives JCSO a chance to strengthen its partnerships with other organizations, but also provides the performers an opportunity to work in a professional setting and experience the art of show business."It's going to be really fantastic working with them and it's a true show of the talent that comes with the city and the arts we're hoping to make a lot more visible throughout the next coming years," she said. "It is a very timeless show, and I think it's even more special that we're encouraging the future generation of the arts, all of these students within it, and giving them a chance to perform with live music by a professional orchestra."Lane said she's personally eager to see the "Grans Pas" part of "The Nutcracker's" second act, believing the professional acting and dancing of the ballet performers will heighten the scene."'The Nutcracker' just really takes you to a magical place, and especially just watching it with the light of ballet is going to be very cool," said Lane.The performance will take place at 3 p.m. on Dec. 14 at Milligan University's Seeger Chapel. All students, both school age and college/university, will receive free tickets when presenting a school ID at the box office the day of the concert. More information and tickets can be found at jcsymphony.com.