Lynchburg VA center for arts, culture, and community building
Charlottesville Ballet: The Nutcracker
Step into a world of holiday magic as Charlottesville Ballet returns to Lynchburg with The Nutcracker— a holiday tradition favorite, presented by Blue Ridge Bank!
This 90-minute holiday classic brings together professional dancers and over 150 performers from across Central Virginia in a whimsical journey through swirling snowflakes, dancing treats, and the sparkling Land of Sweets — all led by Clara and the Nutcracker. Performances feature live orchestral accompaniment by members of Charlottesville Symphony and chorus by Cantate Children’s & Youth Choir, adding an unforgettable musical layer to the magic.
December 21 at 1:00PM – NEW Sensory-Friendly Show
Debuting in Lynchburg, Nutcracker Sweets is a 45-minute abridged version of Act II, thoughtfully designed for individuals with autism, sensory sensitivities, or other disabilities. This sensory-friendly experience features a narrated introduction with ASL interpretation, recorded music, adjusted lighting and sound, and a welcoming, judgment-free atmosphere. A designated quiet area will be available throughout the show.
Class with Clara
Let your child step into the spotlight with Class with Clara — a magical on-stage experience where children ages 3–10 join Clara and her friends for a delightful ballet class after the performance! Participants will learn introductory ballet steps, meet the characters, and take home a special Nutcracker souvenir, sponsored by Paisley Gifts and Stationery — plus memories to last a lifetime. An adaptive version of Class with Clara will follow the sensory-friendly Nutcracker Sweets show.
All-inclusive tickets to the performance Class with Clara are only available in the VIP seating section (box seats and orchestra center).
Tickets:
VIP All-Inclusive Box Seats: $110 Adult, $100 Child/Student/Senior/Military
*Includes private box seats with drink tickets, plus option for backstage tour before the performance
VIP All-Inclusive Tickets: $85 Adult, $80 Children/Student/Senior/Military
*Includes premium seating with drink tickets
Tier 1: $60 Adult, $55 Child/Student/Senior/Military
Tier 2: $45 Adult, $40 Child/Student/Senior/Military
Tier 3: $30 Adult, $25 Child/Student/Senior/Military
Tickets start at $25 with discounts available for students, seniors, and EBT cardholders through the Virginia Commission for the Arts’ Passport Program. Group rates available.
*Plus taxes and fees
For more information or to purchase tickets to this performance, contact our Bank of the James Ticketing Office at (434) 846-8499.
Sponsored By:
Presenting Sponsor: Blue Ridge Bank
Land of the Snowflakes inspired by Massanutten Resort
Souvenir Sponsor: Paisley Gifts & Stationery
This performance is made possible by our Lynchburg sponsors and the Greater Lynchburg Community Foundation
Arts Partners:
Cantate Children’s and Youth Choir
Community Partners:
UVA Accessible Theatre Project
Know before you go:
Accessibility
Age Requirement
All patrons, regardless of age, must have a ticket for this event unless otherwise stated. All ages are welcome.
Camera Policy
Videography and audio recording during the performances are prohibited. Photography of the set on stage is allowed pre-show, post-show, and during intermission. But we do ask that you show our designers and visiting performers some love by crediting them (and by tagging us) in your social media posts.
Content Advisory
The Academy Center of the Arts offers a diverse selection of entertainment. Not all productions may appeal to or be appropriate for every guest or for all ages. Ticket buyers should take responsibility for making informed decisions regarding their purchases. We recommend visiting the official show website of each show you are coming to see at the Academy. If you ever have questions about the content or appropriateness of a show, please contact us at boxoffice@academycenter.org.
Doors Open
Unless otherwise noted, our lobby doors open 60 minutes prior to show time and house doors open 30 minutes prior to show time for seating.
Parking & Directions
Parking is available on-site and throughout downtown Lynchburg. Our parking map (linked below) shows all of the free public and paid parking available. In addition, street parking is also available on most streets.
Ticketing Policies
Ticketing purchases are non-refundable. By purchasing a ticket to an event at The Academy Center of the Arts, you are agreeing to our ticketing policy. View our full ticketing policy.
Volunteer
Want to volunteer and see this show for free? Contact Mele Thompson, mthompson@academycenter.org, for more information.