Cobb County, Georgia, December 24, 2025
News Summary
Students at Cobb County Elementary School recently attended a captivating performance of ‘The Nutcracker’ by the Atlanta Ballet. As part of the Kids in Step program, the 35-minute mini shows provide students with an engaging introduction to ballet and highlight the inclusivity of the arts. This year’s production at the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Center showcases diverse talents and cultural representation, making ballet accessible and exciting for young audiences.
Atlanta, Georgia – Students at Cobb County Elementary School recently experienced a captivating performance of “The Nutcracker,” presented by the Atlanta Ballet. This initiative is part of the Atlanta Ballet’s Kids in Step program, which introduces thousands of students to ballet each year through engaging and educational experiences.
The performances are specially designed for school audiences and consist of 35-minute mini shows. These abbreviated versions provide a glimpse of “The Nutcracker,” while also offering students a behind-the-scenes look at the production. The program’s coordinator emphasizes the importance of creating a safe environment for self-expression during these special school performances.
Organizers aim to create memorable experiences that encourage children to embrace the arts and potentially become advocates for creative expression in the future. The performances are scheduled at the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Center, where the Atlanta Ballet has a well-established presence, showcasing dance as an integral part of the community.
Since taking over as artistic director in 2016, Gennadi Nedvigin has focused on presenting the best ballet to Atlanta audiences, blending both classical and contemporary works. The ballet company aims to cultivate dancers who have the stamina and versatility necessary to perform a wide range of choreography, including both beloved classics and innovative world premieres.
Among the young talents involved is Skylar Lauridson, a fifth-grader from Chapel Hill Elementary, who has been cast in Atlanta Ballet’s “The Nutcracker.” Skylar has a background in performing arts, having appeared in shows such as “Away in a Manger” and local senior home caroling events. The Atlanta Ballet’s interpretation of “The Nutcracker” is recognized for its inclusivity, attracting a diverse audience that reflects the community’s cultural richness.
The performance features lead dancer Ángel Ramírez from Trinidad, who began his dancing journey inspired by “The Nutcracker” as a child. Additionally, Airi Igarashi, a dancer from Japan, contributes her global experience to the performance, highlighting the significance of the ballet’s music in creating the overall ambiance. The production includes characters that represent various cultures within the Land of Sweets, celebrating the theme of diversity.
Atlanta Ballet’s version of “The Nutcracker” was reimagined in 2018, blending classic choreography with a focus on cultural celebration. Performances continue through December 27 at the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Center, where tickets for shows featuring young dancers, such as Skylar Lauridson, are available for purchase on the venue’s website.
Key Details
- Program: Atlanta Ballet’s Kids in Step
- Performance Duration: 35 minutes
- Artistic Director: Gennadi Nedvigin
- Inclusion: Diverse backgrounds represented
- Performance Period: Through December 27
FAQ
What is the Atlanta Ballet’s Kids in Step program?
The Atlanta Ballet’s Kids in Step program introduces thousands of students to the ballet each year.
How long are the performances designed for school audiences?
The performances are 35-minute mini shows designed specifically for school audiences.
Where do the Nutcracker performances take place?
The Nutcracker performances occur at the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Center.
When does the Atlanta Ballet’s Nutcracker run?
The company performs at the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Center through December 27.
Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Performance Name | The Nutcracker |
| Duration | 35 minutes |
| Location | Cobb Energy Performing Arts Center |
| Director | Gennadi Nedvigin |
| Run Dates | Through December 27 |
| Inclusivity | Showcases diversity through characters |
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Additional Resources
- Atlanta News First: Cobb County Students Experience Nutcracker Ballet
- AJC: A Decade in Nedvigin – Works to Realize His Vision at Atlanta Ballet
- Douglas County Sentinel: Chapel Hill Fifth Grader Earns Role in Atlanta Ballet’s The Nutcracker
- CBS News: Atlanta Ballet The Nutcracker – Diverse Cast of Dancers
- Peachtree TV: Atlanta Ballet Prepares to Perform Nutcracker
- Wikipedia: Ballet
- Google Search: Nutcracker Ballet
- Google Scholar: Nutcracker Ballet
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Ballet
- Google News: Nutcracker Ballet
Author: STAFF HERE ATLANTA WRITER
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