I often forget how spoiled we are to live in a city that offers so many rich, cultural experiences. Our children are lucky to be able to visit a world-class zoo, art museum, history museum and musical performances — all almost within walking distance of each other. This holiday season, a classic Cincinnati cultural event returns to the Aronoff Center, and as it’s already a tradition for so many families, you’ll definitely want to plan an outing to see Cincinnati Ballet’s The Nutcracker.
The story — and the music — of The Nutcracker, have always gone hand in hand with the holiday season, but the Cincinnati Ballet manages to keep it fresh each year, while maintaining its magic and enchantment. The Nutcracker is the perfect opportunity to introduce even your youngest children to performance art, as the colorful costumes, captivating music and family-centered environment are sure to grab and keep their attention. It’s a special time to spend as a family, maybe get a little dressed up, and head to our bustling downtown to enjoy all it has to offer this month.
I’ve seen many shows at the Aronoff Center, but this was our first experience with our two young children. I was honestly a little concerned how our three-year-old son and two-year-old daughter would do sitting through a ballet. But as they tend to do, they surprised me and as soon as that curtain went up, their eyes were glued to the stage. The ushers provided us with two cushions for them to sit on so they could easily see the performance and it was obvious they were enjoying themselves. Our daughter loved the colors, the movement and the larger-than-life toys, while our son interrupted a few times with questions about what was going on – he was actually following the story!
As my husband and I sat in the auditorium where we both received our high school diplomas, watching our little ones fall in love with a beautiful Christmas pastime, I quickly realized that we would be making Cincinnati Ballet’s The Nutcracker an annual family tradition. The moments we share together, with the people we love, in the city we love, are what the holiday season is all about. And you’re sure to share many of those moments during your visit to The Nutcracker.
Cincinnati Ballet’s The Nutcracker runs from December 9th through the 18th at the Aronoff Center for the Arts. For more info and to purchase tickets, visit their website here.
Feature image by Aaron M. Conway courtesy of the Cincinnati Ballet.
About Andrea:
A native Cincinnatian, Andrea has experienced life in all four corners of this city. After growing up on the west side, she headed north to attend Miami University, then moved east to Hyde Park and now lives in Northern Kentucky with her family.
When she’s not playing trains and doing the “hot dog dance” as a stay-at-home mom to her two toddlers, Andrea is busy writing for Cincinnati publications and brainstorming ideas for her next children’s book! With a newfound passion for fitness and overall health, she spends a lot of time at her family gym and loves to play outside.
Andrea worked in education for several years and has a special love for children’s literature. She loves showing her children all our city has to offer and enjoys sharing her finds with other parents. Her favorite spots include the Cincinnati Zoo (although she steers clear of the bird house), her local library and any playground.