Urban Nutcracker Celebrating 20th Season At The Boch Shubert Theatre

BOSTON (WBZ NewsRadio) – A popular twist on a classic holiday performance is about to commemorate an important milestone.

"Urban Nutcracker" will celebrate its 20th season at the Boch Center Shubert Theatre this month. Presented by City Ballet of Boston, the performance features winter scenes set in present-day downtown Boston with a diverse cast that is aimed at mirroring the city’s contemporary population.

Founder and Artistic Director Tony Williams created the show to bring the classic Nutcracker story into the modern age. He said the show pays homage to Boston and its many iconic landmarks including the "Make Way for Ducklings” statues, the Boston Public Garden and the Citgo sign.

“Our production draws in many aspects of Boston and its backdrops,” Williams said. “Our production captures the essence of the traditional Nutcracker story, while using the glorious music of Tchaikovsky along with the inner-city twist of the incomparable Duke Ellington.”

Anchored by classic ballet, the "Urban Nutcracker" includes a broad range of dance forms like tap, hip-hop, flamenco and jazz. Music is performed by the Urban Nut/Band.

“One never gets bored while watching the many dance styles,” Williams added. “For 20 years 'Anthony Williams' Urban Nutcracker' has been celebrating diversity through dance!”

"Urban Nutcracker" will give nine performances from December 18-26, 2021. Tickets are available at the Boch Center Box Office or online.

WBZ’s Matt Shearer (@MattWBZ) spoke to Williams about this energetic performance:

Follow WBZ NewsRadio: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | iHeartmedia App