Ozark Ballet Theater invites Northwest Arkansas to celebrate The Nutcracker December 18-20, 2026, at Pat Walker Theater at Springdale High School. Professional guest artists and local Academy dancers will share the stage in a production that connects a beloved holiday tradition with the future of arts education in our community.
This year's guest cast brings experience from some of the world's great ballet companies. Rainer Krenstetter is a former principal dancer with Staatsballett Berlin and Miami City Ballet. Emily Bromberg spent eleven years with Miami City Ballet, and Ariel Morilla formerly danced with the National Ballet of Cuba. Their artistry offers local audiences the chance to enjoy exceptional ballet close to home.
For OBT's young dancers, sharing a production with accomplished professionals makes the possibilities of their training tangible. The work begins well before the curtain rises, as students learn choreography, build confidence and discover the responsibility of being part of a cast.
Attending helps sustain that work. Ozark Ballet Theater is a nonprofit committed to making professional-quality dance education accessible to students from all backgrounds. Thirty percent of its students receive full scholarships. Ticket purchases support the organization and its arts education and scholarship mission, helping more young people participate in the life of the studio and the stage.
Whether The Nutcracker is a family tradition or a child's first ballet, this is an opportunity to spend time together while supporting the students and artists who make Northwest Arkansas their home.
Performances are Friday, December 18, at 7 p.m.; Saturday, December 19, at 2 p.m.; and Sunday, December 20, at 2 p.m. All times are Central. Pat Walker Theater is located at Springdale High School, 1103 W. Emma Avenue, Springdale. Tickets are $28-$42 plus fees.
Choose your performance and reserve seats at www.ozarkballettheater.com/nutcracker
