“The Nutcracker Ballet” is a time-honored tradition at Stephens Auditorium, going on 40 years. Photo: Stephens Auditorium
It’s not too early to make plans for the holidays. Iowa State University’s Stephens Auditorium in Ames has a few performances to mark on your calendars.
“The Nutcracker Ballet” (Dec. 11-12): Tickets went on sale last week for this holiday tradition, which has taken the Stephens Auditorium stage every year since 1981. More than 200 local dancers from surrounding central Iowa communities participate with guest principal dancers performing the roles of the Sugar Plum Fairy and her Cavalier. Tickets start at $25. There are three showtimes: 1 and 7:30 p.m. on Dec. 11, and 1 p.m. on Dec. 12.
Martina McBride (7 p.m. Nov. 28): Country singer Martina McBride, winner of 15 major music awards, will stop in Ames for her “Joy of Christmas” tour, featuring her favorite Christmas music backed by a local orchestra. Tickets start at $25.
Lindsey Stirling (8 p.m. Dec. 1): Violinist and entertainer Lindsey Stirling will perform songs from her two Christmas albums, “Warmer in the Winter” and “Christmas Album.” Stirling’s “Carol of the Bells” single is still the only instrumental song to ever reach the Top 10 at AC Radio, and it hit No. 1 on Holiday Radio in 2020. Tickets start at $35.
