The stage at the Pioneer Center for the Performing Arts will be alive with a sugar plum fairy and dancing mice as A.V.A. Ballet Theatre presents the annual Nutcracker Ballet on December 19, 20, 21, 2025. Artistic director Alexander Van Alstyne has choreographed an exciting rendition of the popular holiday ballet and the Reno Philharmonic Orchestra will perform Tchaikovsky’s moving score. Laura Jackson will be conducting the orchestra.

Principal dancers who have performed with professional ballet companies such as Ballet West, Kansas City Ballet and the Diablo Ballet will perform the leading roles along side a large cast of local talent.