As the holiday season descends upon Raleigh, a flurry of festive events fills the calendar. But there’s one tradition that truly captures the spirit of the season: The Nutcracker, performed by the talented dancers of Cary Ballet Company.
It’s such a popular event for the Raleigh holiday season, that it is held in two of Wake County’s premier performance centers, Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts, and the Cary Arts Center. This enchanting ballet transports audiences into a world of magic, snowflakes, and sweet treats—a perfect way to celebrate the season with family and friends!
A Tradition of Excellence and Joy
Since 1998, Cary Ballet Company has captivated the hearts of our community with exceptional performances that bring classical and contemporary ballet to life. With deep roots in Cary, they have blossomed into one of the premier youth ballet companies in the area, consistently wowing audiences with their technical skill and artistic passion.
They are a local dance company of excellence who believes that “Dance Skills are Life Skills.” Their mission is to develop the next generation into incredible citizens and future stewards to the cultural arts community.
This Holiday Season marks 15 years for Cary Ballet Company as the resident ballet company at Cary Arts Center! Associate Artistic Director, Heather Iler says:
“Having joined the Cary Ballet Company in its second year of residency at the Cary Arts Center, I have witnessed firsthand the growth and expansion of both our organizations. By creating a community for and support of the arts, CAC has facilitated so many wonderful memories and created numerous opportunities for our organization. It’s a joy to share this milestone with the community that has supported us from their very beginning”.
2025 Nutcracker by the Cary Ballet Company
This year, the beloved holiday tradition of The Nutcracker will return to the AJ Fletcher Opera Theater at the Martin Marietta Center for the fourth year running and the Cary Arts Center for its fifteenth year, offering an unforgettable experience.
Cary Ballet Company always finds fresh ways to delight us, and this year is no exception. Cary Ballet Company strives to provide an atmosphere where all performances and facilities are accessible to all of the ballet’s patrons.
One of the highlights of this season’s Nutcracker is the Sensory-Friendly Performance on Friday, December 19 at 11 AM at the Cary Arts Center. This special show is tailored for families seeking a gentler theater experience, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the holiday magic. I love how they are intentional in bringing Holiday joy to all members of the Triangle community.
At each venue there will also be a Nutcracker Suite version at 11am, which is an excellent introduction for kids of all ages. This narrated one-hour show begins with a bare stage, allowing the audience to watch how the stage is set with lights, music, props, and dancers — how dancers go from the studio to the theater.
Due to selling out at the Cary Arts Center for the past few years, the company has added a mini show at 6pm on Thursday evening.
Why You Won’t Want to Miss This Holiday Favorite
The Nutcracker is a holiday classic, featuring the magical tale of Clara as she journeys from her home to the Land of Sweets with her Nutcracker Prince. The familiar melodies, graceful movements, and whimsical story transport you to a world where holiday dreams come to life.
Cary Ballet Company brings warmth, joy, and a sense of wonder to every scene, making it an ideal outing for all ages. Gather your loved ones, immerse yourself in the enchanting world of ballet, and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Make this holiday season unforgettable with The Nutcracker—where tradition meets creativity in the heart of Cary. Below is the important ticket and show information. Don’t miss the magical VIP upgrades below!
Show Times and Tickets for the Cary Ballet Company’s The Nutcracker
Tickets for Cary Ballet Company’s The Nutcracker often sell quickly, so don’t miss your chance to be part of this cherished holiday tradition. This year there will be three performances at the Fletcher Opera Theater at the Martin Marietta Center and eight at the Cary Arts Center.
Click each show time link below to purchase tickets. Ticket costs range from $25 – $50.
Sat, Dec 6, 2025: AJ Fletcher Opera Theater at the Martin Marietta Center:
- Nutcracker Suite – (1-hour narrated matinee, perfect for families) – 11AM
- Traditional, Full-Length Nutcracker: 1:30PM & 5:30PM
- Diamond Reception: 4pm
Sun, 12/14 – Downtown Cary Park: Gathering House & Garden, Cary
Nutcracker Tea with Cary Ballet Company – 2PM–3:30PM
Story time, sweet treats, cocoa/tea, and a chance to meet the dancers. (see more below)
*Tickets $25 – available starting Sun, 11/30 through Town of Cary
Thurs, Dec 12 – Sun, Dec 21, 2025 – Cary Arts Center, Cary
- Nutcracker Suite:
- Sensory Friendly Nutcracker Suite – Fri 12/19 at 11AM
- VIP Photo Op – after the Suite (Thurs & Sat only). $10 add-on ticket includes photo with Clara, Nutcracker, Sugarplum & Cavalier, plus one sweet treat per group.
- Traditional, Full-Length Nutcracker
- Fri 12/19 at 7PM
- Sat 12/20 at 2PM & 7PM
- Sun 12/21 at 1:30PM & 5:30PM
Sprinkle Your Holiday Magic with VIP Upgrades
Want to elevate your Nutcracker experience? Cary Ballet Company has not one but two VIP opportunities that add an extra touch of magic to your holiday season!
1. Town of Cary Sponsored Nutcracker Tea
Join the festivities at Downtown Cary Park’s Gathering House with a special Nutcracker Tea!
Step into a world of holiday enchantment at the Nutcracker Tea, a delightful event presented in partnership with The Cary Theater and Cary Ballet Company. Enjoy a cozy afternoon with a reading from The Nutcracker, tea, hot chocolate, and festive cupcakes from Market 317, perfect for all ages. Children will be thrilled by a special appearance of costumed dancers from The Cary Ballet Company, bringing the magic of the Nutcracker Suite to life.
Tickets for the Nutcracker Tea go on sale November 30 via Town of Cary ($25). Be sure to grab yours early; these tickets will disappear faster than sugar plums on Christmas morning! You can add it to your TOC wishlist so you’re ready when the doors open!
2. Company Sponsored VIP Photo Op
Can’t get enough of The Nutcracker magic? After the Nutcracker Suites performances, you’ll have the chance to meet and greet the Sugarplum Fairy, her Prince, and Clara in Principal’s Hall.
It’s the perfect moment to snap that holiday photo and receive a sweet treat along with a signed flyer as a keepsake. The best part? This special experience helps support Cary Ballet Company’s future productions, as it’s part of a cashless fundraiser with a suggested donation.
A little extra holiday magic while giving back? Yes, please! Now to learn more about the Cary Ballet Company.
About Cary Ballet Company
For over 20 years, the Cary Ballet Company has been synonymous with dance excellence and its powerful mission for enriching the cultural and educational fabric of the Triangle community.
They have stood as a beacon of dance excellence, embodying a steadfast commitment to enriching the cultural and educational tapestry of the Triangle community.
Led by visionary artistic directors and boasting a troupe of exceptionally talented dancers, the company has carved a niche for presenting classical ballets and contemporary premieres. Additionally, the company is committed to intentional outreach initiatives, specifically targeting underserved students and residents within the community.
Here is an interesting fact:
There are over 130 youth dancers, and seventeen moved to Cary, NC to train with Cary Ballet Conservatory and perform with the non-profit Company. Those dancers are from nine different states and one from South America.
Alumni dancers can be found across the country from San Antonio Ballet, Richmond Ballet, Miami City Ballet and other regional companies to international companies like Stuttgart Ballet in Germany and prestigious ballet schools as The Royal Ballet in London.
In addition to dance careers, many alumni went to higher education and have successful careers in the medical industry, accounting, legal and arts administration.
About Mariaelena Ruiz, Artistic Director
Mariaelena Ruiz, the esteemed Artistic Director of the Cary Ballet, boasts an illustrious career steeped in ballet excellence.
Trained by none other than Prima Ballerina, Nina Novak of Ballet Russe de Monte Carlo, Ruiz’s journey into the world of dance began at a remarkably early age. Her accolades include winning prestigious competitions such as the Varna International Ballet Competition and the Prix Volinine in Paris.
Mariaelena’s expertise extends beyond performing; she has trained some of today’s brightest ballet stars during her tenure at The Rock School for Dance Education and from Cary Ballet Conservatory and Company.
As the creator of the Professional Training Program at Cary Ballet Conservatory, Mariaelena has garnered recognition from esteemed publications like Dance Magazine and Pointe Magazine, solidifying her reputation as a transformative force in ballet education.
As the visionary behind its artistic endeavors, Mariaelena Ruiz has elevated the company to new heights of acclaim. Under her leadership, the company has presented captivating productions, including a sold-out, full-length rendition of “The Nutcracker,” which has become a beloved tradition since 2016.
Mariaelena’s commitment to innovation is evident in the company’s “Spring Works,” where she collaborates with sought-after choreographers to create original pieces.
Mariaelena continues to inspire audiences with her boundless passion and dedication to the art of ballet.
Heather Iler, Associate Artistic Director
Ms. Iler is the backbone to the Company for planning, rehearsals, casting and so much more.
Heather Iler’s journey through the world of ballet began with training under the guidance of esteemed directors and at prestigious institutions such as the School of American Ballet and the School of Classical Ballet.
Joining the faculty of Cary Ballet Conservatory in 2011, Heather’s dedication to dance education became evident as she assumed various leadership positions, spearheading initiatives like the Aspiring Dancer Program and contributing to the establishment of the Professional Training Program (PTP).
In 2014, Heather’s role expanded when she was appointed Associate Artistic Director of the Cary Ballet Company. Under her leadership, the company flourished, expanding its repertoire, and offering new opportunities for dancers through innovative programs like Plié All Day.
Heather’s commitment to accessibility and excellence in ballet shines through as she brings classical masterpieces like Coppélia and Swan Lake to the stage while nurturing a love for dance in students of all backgrounds and skill levels.
Her unwavering dedication to upholding the company’s mission ensures that every individual, regardless of background, can experience the transformative power of ballet and live theater.
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