Anthony Williams’ Urban Nutcracker

Photo: Urban Nutcracker dance troupe

Credit: Provided by APT

Anthony Williams puts a modern spin on the 19th-century fairy tale and transports viewers to an enchanted world, not unlike their own.

Anthony Williams’ Urban Nutcracker, a celebration of multi-cultural communities, puts a modern spin on the 19th-century fairy tale and transports viewers to an enchanted world, not unlike their own. It premieres Tuesday, December 20, 2022 at 10 p.m. on WXXI-TV. 

This holiday special reimagines the famous 19th-century ballet by weaving classical ballet, urban tap, hip hop, flamenco, step, and jazz style dance. Featuring swing music from Duke Ellington, to the blues, rap, Tchaikovsky and more, Urban Nutcracker results in a modern, vibrant, inclusive celebration of America’s urban landscape. 

When Tony Williams—Boston Ballet’s first Black principal dancer—decided to open a dance studio, he chose his old neighborhood. He loved ballet and wanted to share it with his community. The community gave him something in return. The Urban Nutcracker embraces diversity in both dance style and participation; it promotes free expression and inclusivity for its performers to discover what they do best and allow them to shine.

The need for inclusive arts like the Urban Nutcracker is evident in its quick proliferation to other locations—Brooklyn, Houston, and Tacoma. Each takes the concept and makes it their own, incorporating the cultures and talents of their own communities. Meanwhile, graduates of Tony’s production have gone on to perform at the highest levels of ballet and other forms of dance, becoming teachers and sharing their passion for the arts with those who might otherwise be excluded.