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My First Nutcracker

A delightful experience presented by New York City Children's Theater

By Adina Kayton December 2, 2023


New York City Children’s Theater’s (NYCCT) holiday tradition, My First Nutcracker, returns to Theatre Row from December 1st - 21st! 

My First Nutcracker, an interactive adaptation of the holiday classic, is the new hit dance/theater production for the whole family. 

Adapted for young audiences by Barbara Zinn Krieger (Artistic Director and Founder of NYCCT) and directed and choreographed by Melissa Riker ((Artistic Director and Choreographer of Kinesis Project dance theatre), My First Nutcracker centers on Clara-Marie, emphasizing her agency and bravery. The show invites young theatergoers and their families to use their imagination and participate in the fun throughout the production. 

Director and Choreographer Melissa Riker says, “This year My First Nutcracker has brand new dances for our audiences to experience! And, for everyone who joins us, big or small, we can't wait to share Clara's journey! There are so many ways an adventurous spirit and imagination can be felt through dance.” 

My First Nutcracker will play at Theatre Row, a program of Building for the Arts, NY, from December 1st - 21st. Tickets begin at $52.50, though a limited amount of pay what you choose tickets are available for each performance. The show runs approximately 50 minutes and is best for ages 3-8, but fun for the whole family. 

Our family attended the show this evening with our 6 year old and 2 year old, they had a wonderful time following along with the story. It was a greately times show that lasted 45 minutes and incorporated interactive aspects into it which really made the kids giggle and have extra fun. The dancers moved through the aisles and even called the young children up close to the stage where they practiced beautiful dance moves together. 

We thought it was a wondeful experience and even younger than 3 year olds would enjoy it in our opinion. Booster seats were available and all the seats had a good view of the stage. We highly recommend going with your family! *Tip for the show: They have booster seats for your kids, use them!*

For more information on the performance, visit 

https://www.nycchildrenstheater.org/show/my-first-nutcracker/ 

New York City Children's Theater's local and nationally recognized arts-in-education programs and professional theater productions have served over 420,000 children and adults across all five boroughs and surrounding communities in the tri-state area. 

NYCCT is a proud member of the Broadway Green Alliance and is dedicated to keeping our programming sustainable.