Troupe to present 38th annual production of Tchaikovsky's “The Nutcracker” on Dec. 4

CENTRAL VALLEY- Every December for almost four decades, audiences have come to see the Orange County Ballet Theatre’s full-length production of Tchaikovsky’s ballet “The Nutcracker.” This year’s production will be held at 7 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 3, and at 2:30 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 4, at Monroe-Woodbury High School at 155 Dunderberg Road in Central Valley. The event is made possible by the dedication of 30 young dancers, ages 10 to 18, who spend ten weeks rehearsing for the production. During the show, snow falls upon the stage, the magical Christmas tree grows to enormous heights, and the Sugarplum Fairy travels across the stage on her toes. Chelsea Garzione, a 13-year-old eighth grader at North Junior High in Newburgh will again perform as Clara, the young girl who receives the magical Nutcracker. Christina Richichi, a senior at Valley Central High School, will return as the Sugar Plum Fairy, who welcomes and entertains Clara and her Nutcracker in the magical Land of Sweets. Swirling Flowers, Russian dancers and dancing Bon Bons will be among the many performers. Regis Powers, who founded the troupe, recently retired, leaving the opportunity for former member Darlene Wilson to return and take command as the artistic director this season. She has been teaching and coaching students locally and in New York City for many years. She has the experience of performing in and choreographing for Broadway productions and national tours. For this production, Wilson will retain the choreography and staging created by Powers. All seats are reserved. Tickets are $15 and $12.50. For more information or to order tickets, call 562-6750 after 3:30 p.m., or send a self-addressed stamped envelope, indicating the number of tickets and the date, to: Orange County Ballet Theatre, P.O. Box 81, Warwick NY 10990.