Great Falls — Classical Ballet Theatre celebrated the 2016 holiday season with its annual, classic production of The Nutcracker, held at the 532-seat Ernst Theater at Northern Virginia Community College. The magical performances are a family favorite in the Washington Metropolitan Area for many reasons. Well-known are the beautiful choreography, stunning costumes, and good-natured humor as well as the guest appearances by renowned professional artists. Not so well known, however, are the extensive behind-the-scenes efforts to make the performances accessible to everyone, and this year was no exception. Classical Ballet Theatre gave a free performance of its classic Nutcracker to a full house of military, first responders, and their family members, totaling over 500 special guests.

“This year’s tribute performance for military, first responders, and their families was one of my favorite,” shared Cynthia Donavin, who founded Classical Ballet Theatre (CBT) of Northern Virginia over 25 years ago. She continued, “As a not-for-profit, performing arts organization, CBT approaches its outreach mission with enthusiasm, and I greatly appreciate all patrons and volunteers who help CBT make the arts accessible to all.”

Classical Ballet Theatre thanks its many independent patrons as well as supporting businesses and organizations, including Activity Rocket, Arts Council of Fairfax County, ArtsHerndon, Dance Metro DC, Girl Scout Council of the Nation’s Capital, NextStop Theatre, and The Cinnamon Tree. Classical Ballet Theatre also invites area residents and businesses to visit www.cbtnva.org/donate to help continue its community outreach, like the free tribute performance for military and first responders as well as free Children’s Series performances for area preschools and free educational programming for Girl Scouts.