SLO Ballet Theatre’s “A Christmas Carol.”

The SLO Ballet Theatre performs the musical in the Spanos Theatre Dec. 16-18

—This December, a beloved holiday classic will return to the stage of the Spanos Theatre when renowned ballet choreographer Gilbert Reed’s full-length holiday classic “A Christmas Carol” is being presented by Ballet Theatre San Luis Obispo, Dec. 16-18 in three performances. Former Gilbert Reed Ballet principal ballerina, Theresa Slobodnik, now artistic director of Ballet Theatre San Luis Obispo, is mounting the ballet.

“Gilbert (Reed) occasionally referred to his Carol as our Nutcracker, referring to the story’s broad audience appeal during the holidays. But that’s where the similarities end. While The Nutcracker is a child’s Christmas Eve fantasy of presents, princes and sweets, A Christmas Carol is a story of a bitter human being, poignantly challenged that same eve by four visitors, bringing a true change of heart,” Slobodnik said. She danced the ballet’s principal female role from 1994 – 2002.

A Christmas Carol is set to the music of G. F. Handel in a complied score with arrangements by Sir Thomas Beecham. The performance is appropriate for all ages. The ballet stages an ensemble cast of forty dancers featuring the BT-SLO Performing Company, professional guests, its Youth Ballet, and has a supporting cast from the School of BT-SLO and community members in roles ranging from Tiny Tim and the Littlest Cratchit children through Old Scrooge.

Professionally mounted with set design by John Slobodnik after Dr. Robert Halon, and costume design by Michelle McLaughlin after Sydna Reed, Reed’s masterful choreography and storytelling will transport you to late 19th century London. Ballet Theatre San Luis Obispo’ Performing Company, guests and supporting cast will dance the work in three performances: Fri., Dec. 16 at 7 p.m., Sat., Dec. 17 at 7 p.m. and Sun., Dec. 18 at 2 p.m. The Friday opening night performance has a special $22 ticket price for all seats. Tickets for Sat/Sun are from $20-$35 (not including PAC fees) with discounted group rates for ten or more. Tickets available at www.pacslo.org or link with more information through www.bt-slo.org. Questions contact Blair, (805) 440-1439.