MACON, Ga. — It's time for one of Central Georgia's favorite holiday traditions and performers are excited to share it with you.
The Nutcracker is returning to the Grand Opera House beginning on Thursday. This is the annual ballet's 38th year.
"I think there are very few cultural moments that are so consistent in Macon that are so beloved. I can't think of anything comparable to it," Director of Patron Services and Rental for the Grand Opera House Chas Pridgen said.
Board members and dancers with The Nutcracker of Middle Georgia have been preparing since September to bring the Christmas classic to life on stage.
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Melanie Marshall is the Souvenir Chair for the Nutcracker of Middle Georgia.
Her family has been attending Nutcracker performances for years. Her daughter, Bella, is a dancer and Melanie joined the board because she thought it was something she and her daughter could do together.
Nine years later, Melanie is still a part of the team that makes Christmas in Macon a little more magical.
"For me, it kicks off the holiday season. It's something that our family has been a part of and will continue to be a part of. It's something that there is just a lot of memories that we've made — and will continue to make," she said.
18-year-old dancer Bella Marshall has been in the Nutcracker since she was 8. She says many of the girls she started dancing with are now in lead roles with her in the show.
"It just brings a sense of community and it's so awesome," she said.
Melanie and Bella both said the people who make the ballet happen every year are like family.
"It's so special. My four best friends and I have been doing it since we were eight and it's the sweetest to be able to grow up with them, not only in the studio but in Nutcracker as well," Bella said.
All four performances are nearly sold out and Pridgen says this isn't unusual. Tickets go on sale in August and quickly fill up.
"The soul of the Nutcracker pervades all of Middle Georgia I think. There are so many people who, every single year, they have to make sure they see The Nutcracker," Pridgen said.
Every year, several youth performers get the chance to be a part of one of Central Georgia's most beloved traditions. Pridgen, also a former dancer himself, says he supports any organization that gives young people a chance to shine.
"Coming and supporting local performers and local talent, especially young talent, I think is very important and the fact that the Nutcracker, institutionally, puts those children in a position where they can feel the love of their own community is amazing," he said.
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Bella said she is so proud to be a part of so many Central Georgians Christmas traditions.
"It makes me feel so special. I know that my family has been going since I was two so being able to be a part of not only my family's Christmas traditions but so many others Christmas traditions, it just brings joy to my heart," she said.
The Nutcracker debuts at the Grand Opera House on Thursday. Performances are almost completely sold out but there are still a handful of tickets available.