Dance Repertory Company presents 'The Nutcracker'

The Dance Repertory Company of the Minnesota Conservatory for the Arts — in association with Merchants Bank — will present the holiday favorite "The Nutcracker" Dec. 4-7.

Heralding the message of peace on earth, “The Nutcracker” is performed around the globe during the holiday season. Producing this delightful ballet every other holiday season, the Dance Repertory Company once again brings this magical experiences to the Winona-area community for its fifth biennial production.

The 2008 cast includes 100 members — including students from Saint Mary’s, Winona State University, and children and community members from the Winona area. In addition to beautiful dancing, this year’s production will feature a special choral performance by MCA’s Winona Area Youth Singers at the conclusion of Act I in the Land of Snow.

“The Nutcracker” performances are scheduled for 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 4, through Saturday, Dec. 6, and at 3 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 7, at Page Theatre. The Dec. 4-6 evening performances are recommended for children ages 5 and older. The Sunday, Dec. 7, afternoon performance is considered a “family event” and children ages 2 and older are welcome. At this time, the Page Theatre facilities and programs are not equipped to serve the needs of infants.

Tickets are $10 for adults, $5 for students and senior citizens and are available at the Saint Mary’s Box Office at Ext. 1715 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday, or visit www.pagetheatre.org. Online ticket orders are only available through Dec. 1.

The Minnesota Conservatory for the Arts is an affiliate program of Saint Mary’s.