Maryland Youth Ballet Returns to the Theater

Maryland Youth Ballet (MYB) proudly presents the return of its holiday classic The Nutcracker. The magical full-length production, set to Tchaikovsky’s timeless score, will return to the stage for in-person performances. The Nutcracker opens on December 17 with performances through December 27 at the Robert E. Parilla Performing Arts Center at Montgomery College in Rockville.

“I can’t begin to describe my feelings for Maryland Youth Ballet to be back on stage performing The Nutcracker in front of a live audience,” said Artistic Director Olivier Munoz. “This past year has made us more aware of what we do and how it resonates with people. All of us, dancers, staff, and theater crew, have a new sense of appreciation and are filled with joy to be doing what we love again.”

MYB dancers began rehearsals for The Nutcracker on October 2. In order to participate dancers had to provide verification of their COVID-19 vaccination and MYB continues to follow strict safety measures and protocols that were implemented in the studio at the start of the pandemic. Due to the vaccination requirement, only dancers ages 12 and above were able to participate reducing the cast size by about 50% from previous years. “We miss having the younger students participate this year but our dancers have been amazing at taking on 2 or 3 rolls each in order to cover the casting needs,” said Associate Artistic Director & Principal Deidre Byrne.

For the well-being and safety of our audiences, dancers, and staff, MYB has also implemented a COVID-19 Safety policy for all shows. All patrons 12 years of age and over must present proof of vaccination before entering the theater and everyone must wear a mask inside the theater at all times, regardless of vaccination status. We will also be offering reserved seating for all performances. For full COVID-19 Safety policy details, visit marylandyouthballet.org/tickets/.

The Nutcracker, Robert E. Parilla Performing Arts Center, 51 Mannakee St. Rockville, MD

FRI, DEC 17 at 7:00 pm

SAT, DEC 18 at 1:00 pm and 5:00 pm

SUN, DEC 19 at 1:00 pm and 5:00 pm

THUR, DEC 23 at 3:00pm and 7:00 pm