09/01/2026
World-class dreams can begin in small communities 🌎✨
Every year, young dancers across Southern Illinois walk into one of our studios, take their place at the barre, and begin the quiet, disciplined work of training in ballet. Our 2026 production of The Nutcracker is a celebration of that work—and of what can happen when a community chooses to invest in its own young people. 🫂
Our ballet production features local youth from across Southern Illinois, trained throughout the year by Ms. Sarah and Mr. Will, who bring a combined 30 plus years of ballet teaching experience in the Cecchetti and Vaganova techniques 🩰
They are in the studio with them every week—teaching classes, providing individual corrections, developing technique, and building confidence for the next step . . .
For some Arabesque students, that “next step” has included advanced and professional training opportunities in St. Louis, Miami, New York City, Dallas, and beyond.
That is why supporting local arts MATTERS ‼️
🎟️ A ticket purchased here helps create opportunities HERE!
👏 Applause given here encourages a young artist HERE!
❤️ A full audience shows these dancers that their own community believes their work is worth seeing.
This Christmas, we invite you to enjoy a timeless holiday tradition while celebrating the remarkable talent being nurtured right here at home! 🏠
🎄 Arabesque Dance Studio presents The Nutcracker 2026
📅 Monday, November 30th at 6:00 p.m. | Tuesday, December 1st at 6:00 p.m.
📍 Marion Cultural and Civic Center
ℹ️ More information about the show can be found on our Event Page!
