Sussex Ballet stages Nutcracker Dec. 16-18

Sussex Dance Academy, under the direction of Kate Downes Walker, will take the stage with its annual presentation of the ballet classic, "The Nutcracker," Friday through Sunday, Dec. 16-18, at Cape Henlopen High School in Lewes.

Hannah Derrickson of Lewes, will share the role of Clara with Nova Gaffney of Milford in the Sussex Dance Academy's performances of "The Nutcracker."

The academy's youth ballet company, Sussex Ballet, will perform the production for its eighth year, with 75 Cape Region students and several adults making up the double cast.

"Although it takes a great deal of discipline and hard work for all involved, the end product is a very professional-caliber performance by our young dancers," Walker said.

Show times are 7 p.m., Friday and Saturday, and 1 p.m., Sunday.  Tickets, $15 for adults and $12 for seniors and students, are available at the door.

The Sussex Dance Academy has locations in Rehoboth Beach, Ocean View and Georgetown.