Accompaniment by Reading Pops Orchestra, conducted by Willis Rapp

Berks Ballet Theatre stages its 45th production of “The Nutcracker,” performing Dec. 18 at 1 and 6 p.m. and Dec. 19 at 2 p.m. at the Scottish Rite Cathedral, West Reading.

The production will feature live accompaniment by the Reading Pops Orchestra, under the direction of conductor Willis Rapp.

BBT Artistic Director Kelly Barber and ballet master and resident choreographer Nathan Bland co-choreographed the ballet with 21 company dancers and 23 students from Berks Ballet Theatre Conservatory of Dance.

“We couldn’t be more excited to be live again for this year’s Nutcracker performances and to bring holiday cheer to Berks County. The entire cast is so grateful to be able to safely perform in person which makes this year’s production even more special and meaningful,” said Barber.

Dancing the role of the regal Sugar Plum Fairy is company dancer Ellie Folga of Wyomissing, who has been promoted to this role following her performance the previous season as Lead Candy Cane.The role of Sugar Plum Fairy is traditionally danced by a professional guest; however, Folga has shown she’s both technically and artistically ready to meet the demands of the role.

The role of the Cavalier will be danced by New York City-based dancer and Broadway alum Jace Coronado.

Returning to dance the role of Snow King is New York City-based dancer Nick Peregrino.

Many soloist roles will be performed by BBT company dancers including the Snow Queen, danced by Lorelei Obst of Fleetwood and the Dew Drop Fairy, danced by Jessica Bealer of Reading.

Hennessey Kehs-Rossi of Bernville and Alexis Spitz of Exeter Township, both in the junior company will share the title role of Clara.

Gretchen Kimmel, a senior at Oley Valley High School and recent winner of the Berks County Outstanding Young Woman competition, will bring the roles of Victorian Doll, Mouse Queen and Arabian Coffee to life in three solo performances.

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