Interlochen's ‘The Nutcracker’ Dances Into Our Hearts Just in Time for Christmas - Watch tonight at 9 p.m. on DPTV (56.1) or on-demand at DPTV.org

 Interlochen and Detroit Public TV present a lavish production of this holiday classic performed by the school’s exceptional young artists

Watch tonight at 9 p.m. on DPTV (56.1) or on-demand at DPTV.org

Once again this year, Detroit Public TV (DPTV) broadcasts Interlochen Arts Academy’s production of the holiday classic, “The Nutcracker,” and unlike in 2020, this year it was recorded in front of a live audience.

A global Christmas tradition for more than 100 years, the ballet follows Clara and the enchanted Nutcracker prince as they journey through the Land of Sweets, accompanied by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky’s iconic score.

With choreography by Interlochen Director of Dance Joseph Morrissey, Interlochen Arts Academy’s production features young dancers, musicians, actors and backstage crew from 39 U.S. states and 11 countries. The performance boasts exquisite hand-stitched costumes, lush scenic design and live accompaniment by the Arts Academy Orchestra and Chorale, conducted by Leslie Dunner and John Bragle, respectively.

After utilizing creative, socially distant choreography in 2020, dancers resumed traditional staging this year. But in compliance with Interlochen’s COVID-19 policy, all visitors were required to wear masks while inside campus buildings and during the performance.

Detroit Public TV airs “The Nutcracker” at 9 p.m. ET tonight and also makes it available on-demand at DPTV.org. This special broadcast is part of DPTV’s Detroit Performs arts and culture initiative.

Interlochen Arts Academy is the nation’s premier boarding arts high school, where students pursue pre-professional training in music, dance, theater, visual arts, creative writing and film, alongside a robust academic curriculum, preparing them to excel in the arts and beyond. 

Interlochen Center for the Arts President Trey Devey had this to say about this evening’s performance event: “We’re honored to continue our partnership with Detroit Public TV and bring this magical holiday tradition to audiences far and wide. Our young Interlochen artists will bring a wondrous story to life that celebrates connection and community.” 

And Detroit Public TV feels privileged to be able to offer our viewers this magical family production from one of the state’s great cultural institutions. Talk about a Grand Pas de Deux – Interlochen and DPTV. 

Rich Homberg

President and CEO - Detroit Public Television