Charlottesville Ballet Presents: The Nutcracker
Experience the magic of The Nutcracker, presented by Blue Ridge Bank, as Charlottesville Ballet, the Academy Center of the Arts’ Resident Dance Company, takes the stage. This 90-minute holiday classic follows Clara and the Nutcracker through a magical world of dancing snowflakes, holiday treats, and the sparkling Land of Sweets, featuring professional dancers and local performers.
Select performances include live orchestral accompaniment by musicians from the Charlottesville Symphony and Cantate Children’s & Youth Choir, conducted by Benjamin Rous.
NOTE: The December 20 at 5:00PM performance features recorded music; if you would like to attend a Lynchburg performance with live music, please select a performance on December 19 at 3:00PM & 7:00PM or December 20 at 1:00PM.
Following select performances, children ages 3–10 can join “Class with Clara,” an enchanting onstage ballet experience with beloved Nutcracker characters and a special keepsake.
Also experience Nutcracker Sweets, a 45-minute sensory-friendly adaptation of The Nutcracker created to welcome audiences of all ages and abilities. With adjusted sound and lighting, a designated quiet space, and a supportive, judgment-free environment where audience members may move, vocalize, or take breaks, Nutcracker Sweets offers an accessible introduction to this holiday favorite.
Following Nutcracker Sweets, families can participate in an “Adaptive Class with Clara,” featuring simple ballet movements, interaction with Charlottesville Ballet dancers, and special photo opportunities.
“Class with Clara” and “Adaptive Class with Clara” are add-on experiences available only to performance ticket holders. One event ticket is required per participating child; accompanying adults are free with a performance ticket.
Showtime Details:
The Nutcracker- December 19 at 3:00 PM & 7:00 PM : Live Orchestra Included
The Nutcracker- December 20 at 1:00 PM : Live Orchestra Included
The Nutcracker- December 20 at 5:00 PM : Performance is with Recorded Music
The Nutcracker- December 21 at 11:00 AM : Sensory-Friendly Performance
Event Information
This event is a facility rental and is not produced or presented by the Academy Center of the Arts. All views and content are those of the presenting organization.
Audience Guide:
All Ages
For details, please click here or contact our Box Office:
Phone: (434) 846-8499
Email: boxoffice@academycenter.org
Visit: 519 Commerce St, Lynchburg, VA 24504
Hours: Mon–Fri, 12–5 PM & 1 hour before events
Tickets:
(Prices include ticketing fees.)
The Nutcracker — Live Orchestra
Showtimes: December 19 at 3:00 PM & 7:00 PM | December 20 at 1:00 PM
Tier 1: $85 – $90*
Tier 2: $58 – $65*
Tier 3:$42 – $48*
Tier 4: $32 – $37*
Tier 4 Obstructed View: $25.50 – $32*
The Nutcracker — Recorded Music
Showtimes: December 20 at 5:00 PM
Tier 1: $58 – $65*
Tier 2: $42 – $48*
Tier 3:$37 – $42*
Tier 4: $25.50 – $32*
Tier 4 Obstructed View: $20.50 – $32*
The Nutcracker — Sensory-Friendly Performance
Showtimes: December 21 at 11:00 AM
*Add a Class with Clara experience to any ticket for an additional $25. Available for the Saturday 1:00 PM, Sunday 3:00 PM, and Monday 11:00AM performances only.
*Plus taxes
For more information or to purchase tickets to this performance, contact our Bank of the James Ticketing Office at (434) 846-8499.
Sponsored By:
Know before you go:
Accessibility & Sensory Advisory
Please visit this page to learn more about accessibility at our venues.
Some performances may include flashing lights, strobing effects, loud sounds, haze, or other sensory elements. Guests with photosensitive conditions, hearing sensitivities, or other health concerns should review show information in advance or contact us at boxoffice@academycenter.org for guidance.
Age Requirement
All patrons, regardless of age, must have a ticket for this event unless otherwise stated.
Camera Policy
Videography and audio recording during the performances are prohibited. Photography of the set on stage is allowed pre-show, post-show, and during intermission. But we do ask that you show our designers and visiting performers some love by crediting them (and by tagging us) in your social media posts.
Content Advisory
The Academy Center of the Arts offers a diverse selection of entertainment. Not all productions may appeal to or be appropriate for every guest or for all ages. Ticket buyers should take responsibility for making informed decisions regarding their purchases. We recommend visiting the official show website of each show you are coming to see at the Academy. If you ever have questions about the content or appropriateness of a show, please contact us at boxoffice@academycenter.org.
Doors Open
Unless otherwise noted, our lobby doors open 60 minutes prior to show time and house doors open 30 minutes prior to show time for seating.
Parking & Directions
Parking is available on-site and throughout downtown Lynchburg. Our parking map (linked below) shows all of the free public and paid parking available. In addition, street parking is also available on most streets.
Ticketing Policies
Ticketing purchases are non-refundable. By purchasing a ticket to an event at The Academy Center of the Arts, you are agreeing to our ticketing policy. View our full ticketing policy.
Volunteer
Want to volunteer and see this show for free? Contact Jadynn Blackstone, jblackstone@academycenter.org, for more information.



