Patrick Yocum News Today

Roaring Fork Valley natives Emily Ridings and Nikki Ferry have come full circle when it comes to dance. Both studied dance with Aspen Santa Fe Ballet (ASFB) as kids, continued their training with other prominent...

Roaring Fork Valley natives Emily Ridings and Nikki Ferry have come full circle when it comes to dance. Both studied dance with Aspen Santa Fe Ballet (ASFB) as kids, continued their training with other prominent schools, and now return this weekend, as ASFB presents “The Nutcracker” at Aspen District Theater.

Boston Ballet principal dancers Fentroy, Yocum have joined cast

The company's 45 performances have begun, delivering Clara, a Nutcracker-turned-prince, the sugar plum fairy, and friends to the Opera House stage.

Performances of this ballet are a holiday tradition for families across the world.

There was much to appreciate Thursday in a program that ran just under 2½ hours at the Boston Opera House.

Since 1993, when it bought its current production from the Royal Ballet, Boston Ballet has staged “Sleeping Beauty” every four years or so. Thursday’s opening night suggested that every four years is scarcely often enough.

'The Nutcracker' returns for another holiday season. Read more about this event on Boston.com.

The Boston Ballet company spends an afternoon and evening shooting a promotional video in the forest-like setting of Arnold Arboretum.

This holiday season marks the return of live holiday performances, events, and concerts. Let us know on Boston.com which you'll be seeing.