And so it is "The Nutcracker" that, more than any other event of the ballet season, reminds us why dance is important – indeed, why art is important. Dance is beautiful. It’s joyful. It inspires.

The Milwaukee Ballet performs Michael Pink's The Nutcracker at the Marcus Center for the Performing Art through December 27. For further information or tickets, please visit www.milwaukeeballet.org ...

For the first time in 25 years, Milwaukee Ballet's "Nutcracker" will look different on stage. Artistic director Michael Pink is adjusting story, too.

Look Ahead: “Nutcracker’s” last week; “Magical Cirque Christmas,” “Shrek: The Musical,” and the hybrid tribute band Pink Talking Fish.