KIDS

By Jennifer at Strafford Branch Library

A tradition that started in my family’s home in the 1970’s around this time of year was watching the Nutcracker Ballet (usually broadcasting on PBS).  As a child, I remember being mesmerized by the artistic and athletic ability of the professional dancers as they danced to the classical score written by the Russian composer Tchaikovsky.  With the help of the Library, you and your family can revel in a Nutcracker tradition as well.  You can find multiple DVD versions, book titles and adaptations, and musical variations from which to choose using your Library card. Listen or watch as you decorate for the holidays, cook festive meals and treats, or gaze through your windows at the winter weather.

 Fiction and Nonfiction Picture Books

Becoming a Ballerina: A Nutcracker Story starring the dancers of Boston Ballett, Lise Friedman.

The Dance of the Realms by Calliope Glass. Also available as an e-book on Hoopla.

The Nutcracker by the New York City Ballet.

The Nutcracker Comes to America: How Three Brothers from way out West Turned the Nutcracker into a Holiday Tradition by Chris Barton. Also available as an e-book on Hoopla.

The Nutcracker in Harlem by T.E. McMorrow. Also available as an e-book on Hoopla.

Videorecordings

The Nutcracker, an American Ballet Theatre and Mikhail Baryshnikov production.

The Nutcracker, Elektra Entertainment and Regency Enterprises.