'The Nutcracker' takes virtual stage for Milwaukee Ballet ‘The Nutcracker’ takes virtual stage for Milwaukee Ballet The COVID-19 pandemic can't stop the decades-long Milwaukee tradition, though it is taking a different form than past performances. MILWAUKEE - The Milwaukee Ballet has been performing "The Nutcracker" every Christmas for more than five decades. “It is enormously important. 'The Nutcracker' is the most iconic ballet of all time,” said Artistic Director Michael Pink. "The Nutcracker" normally makes up more than half of the Milwaukee Ballet’s annual ticketing revenue, raising more than $1 million each year. However, in 2020, the organization knew filling up the Marcus Performing Arts Center would not be possible.