The making of 'The Nutcracker': Sweat, chaos and 300 pounds of snow

"As the clock ticked toward 6 p.m. on Sunday, the energy backstage at the Warner Theatre became increasingly charged. The show was running a little behind. Normally, the curtain falls and doors open 30 minutes before showtime. But a change in the crew's schedule threw things off. And earlier in the day, one of the pyro cues didn't fire - an electrical issue that had to be solved before the evening performance."

"Now in its 64th run, the Washington Ballet's production of the classic tale has become a beloved tradition for local families and sugarplum enthusiasts: a chance to get dressed up, head downtown and feel the familiar rush of Tchaikovsky reverberating through a grand, century-old venue. And for the company, it's a linchpin; the production introduces young audience members to ballet, helps attract dancers to its academy and generates critical revenue."

"A lifeline of the ballet world, "The Nutcracker" feels especially crucial in today's shifting arts landscape. And for the Washington Ballet, the production arrives at a moment when the company is hitting its stride again. Executives say they saw a tremendous financial turnaround this year, reporting a $1.4 million operating budget surplus this year after 10 years of operating deficits. Last season was the most successful "Nutcracker" run in the company's history, and this year the goal is to match or surpass that record."

Backstage logistical issues and a solved electrical problem had minor impacts but did not stop performances. The Washington Ballet's Nutcracker runs for its 64th year as a local holiday tradition attracting families and sugarplum enthusiasts. The production generates crucial revenue, introduces young audience members to ballet, and helps recruit dancers to the academy. The company reported a $1.4 million operating budget surplus this year after a decade of deficits, fueled by the most successful Nutcracker run in history last season. Shows run through Dec. 28, forming the most ambitious and financially vital stretch of the season.

Read at The Washington Post