A classic holiday tradition continues at the Lakewood Cultural Center with David Taylor Dance Theatre's delightfully different, nationally acclaimed production of The Nutcracker on stage December 15 -16 and 20 - 23, 2007.

Set to Tchaikovsky's masterful score, the company's talented cast of dancers gracefully tells the story of Clara's adventures with Herr Drosslemeyer and the Nutcracker Prince. The Denver Post says "Denver is no one-Nutcracker town...a fast paced, distinctive vision of The Nutcracker that tells the story in a well-integrated, easy-to-follow way."

Performances are at 2 p.m. December 15, 16, 21, 22 and 23; and 7:30 p.m. on December 15, 16, 20, 21 and 22. Tickets are $36 for adults and are available by calling 303-987-7845, online at www.lakewood.orgor at the Lakewood Cultural Center Box Office, 470 S. Allison Parkway (Wadsworth and Alameda). Senior, child and group discounts available. Ample, free on-site parking is available.

In this year's production, David Taylor Dance Theatre is proud to showcase several new company members including Mira Allmeyer, who will alternate the roles of Clara and the Sugarplum Fairy. Returning dancer Jennifer Kuhn will also be dancing the role of the Sugarplum Fairy. Other new dancers include Ben Luttrell, dancing in "Arabian Coffee," "Spanish Chocolate" and the "Russian Trepak," and Dennis Adams who will be the Nutcracker Prince. Guest artist Caroline Millikin will be sharing the role of Arabian with returning dancer Kristen Glazier and guest artists James Hernandez will dance the role of Cavalier. Jeoff Horgan and Jennfer Kuhn will share the roles of the Snow King and Queen with Ben Luttrell and Natalie Kitka who will also be dancing Clara. Other returning DTDT principals include Stephanie Zak, Jackie Nagashima our Dewdrop Fairy, and Stephen Hernandez who will be dancing Fritz, Russian Trepak, and Chinese.

DTDT Artistic Director Emeritus David Taylor will perform the role of Drosslemeyer, and Artistic Director James Wallace will choreograph a new Spanish soloist role. Another highlight of this year's production will be the continued innovative use of computerized graphic projections along with new lighting in creating the scenic elements designed by Jonathan Scott-McKean for the ballet. These techniques are employed to enhance Artistic Director David Taylor's unique dream-like interpretation of the Christmas classic

The Lakewood Cultural Center 2007 - 2008 Performing Arts Season is generously supported by Aura Spa and Wellness Center at the Sheraton Denver West and the Rocky Mountain News - Closer to Home. Programs are made possible in part through funding from the Scientific and Cultural Facilities District (SCFD)- Metro Denver's unique commitment to its nonprofit art, scientific and cultural institutions, and The Gay and Lesbian Fund for Colorado- Supporting community nonprofits while highlighting the contributions of gay men and lesbians.