Sponsored by Emma Willard School and presented by SPAC's Action Council, the event features a special one-hour performance of the beloved classic ballet “The Nutcracker” by Northeast Ballet Company. Other highlights include an expanded English tea menu with mini-sandwiches, cookies and other delicacies, holiday photos, a raffle and a gift for each child. 

The event is presented at 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. Tickets are $40 for adults and $15 for children. The proceeds benefit arts education programs at SPAC. Tickets for the Nutcracker Tea are available at spac.org, by contacting Linda Deschenes at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., or by calling
(518) 584-9330, ext. 115.

“The annual Nutcracker Tea is a wonderful holiday tradition that has become a favorite for families across the Capital Region. Scenes from Balanchine’s beloved ballet come to life as guests enjoy the delights of an English tea,” said Marcia J. White, SPAC president and executive director. 

Noted local photographer Tammy Loya will be on-site, providing professional holiday photography to interested guests. Costumed Nutcracker dancers will be available to pose with children and guests for photos. 

“The Nutcracker,” composed in 1891 by Tchaikovsky, is a fairy tale ballet that tells the story of a little girl’s journey through a fantasy world of fairies, princes, toy soldiers and an army of mice. First performed in 1892 in St. Petersburg, Russia, it has become an American classic since choreographer George Balanchine introduced his production in 1954 in New York City.