The Nutcracker with Grand Rapids Ballet and the Detroit Opera Orchestra

Grand Rapids Ballet brings its Nutcracker to the Detroit Opera House, with Tchaikovsky's score performed live by the Detroit Opera Orchestra. The production follows Clara and her Nutcracker Prince from a glittering party through a battle with mischievous mice to the Land of Sweets. Val Caniparoli's choreography plays out on storybook sets by Grand Rapids' own Chris Van Allsburg, author of The Polar Express, and Tony Award winner Eugene Lee, which gives this version a look all its own.

Our take: With only a handful of performances in Detroit, pick your showtime early and book seats with a clear view of the Van Allsburg sets.