Joffrey Ballet Archives : TRAVEL/FOOD

There’s no better way to usher in the holiday season than by attending a performance of “The Nutcracker.”

And The Joffrey Ballet’s rendition of the popular seasonal theatrical production is one of the best around. “The Nutcracker,” performed by the acclaimed Joffrey Ballet, continues to Dec. 28 at The Lyric Opera House in Chicago.

The stellar production, now celebrating its 10th anniversary, was choreographed by noted choreographer Christopher Wheeldon, and debuted in 2016. In his version, Wheeldon offers a creative spin on the classic ballet as he changed the setting of the story to Chicago at the time of The Colombian Exposition.

Photo courtesy of the Lyric Opera of Chicago.

The story revolves around Marie, a young girl from a hard-working but poor immigrant family. While in a dream, Marie is taken on a whimsical journey with The Great Impresario of the fair as well as a Nutcracker who has come to life. On the journey, they travel to The World’s Fair where their adventures take them to the ethnic pavilions at the fair and all the exciting happenings there.

This production of “The Nutcracker” has always excelled and it continues to enchant audiences with strong dancing, colorful costumes, stunning sets and, of course, Tchaikovsky’s beautiful score.

The Joffrey dancers are always a joy to watch. Among dancers offering dynamic performances in the show were Amanda Assucena as Marie; Gayeon Jung as the mother as well as The Sugar Plum Fairy; Stefan Goncalvez as The Great Impresario; and Valentino Moneglia as Buffalo Bill.

Secure a ticket for this great Chicago holiday tradition. You won’t be disappointed.

FYI: “The Nutcracker,” performed by The Joffrey Ballet, continues to Dec. 28 at The Lyric Opera House, 20 N. Upper Wacker Drive, Chicago. Visit joffrey.org for more information.

About Eloise Marie Valadez

Guest blogger Eloise Marie Valadez, a frequent contributor to Travel/Food, is a professional journalist/writer and editor with four decades of experience covering the arts, entertainment, and culinary industries. A native of Chicago, she has a passion for the written word.

Top photo courtesy of the Joffrey Ballet.

By Guest Blogger Eloise Marie Valadez

The Joffrey Ballet recently opened its 70th season with the U.S. and Joffrey premiere of the outstanding ballet “Carmen.”

Victoria Jaiani and Dylan Gutierrez are seen in “Carmen.” Photo provided by The Joffrey Ballet© Cheryl Mann 2025

“Carmen,” starring choreography by Liam Scarlett, continues to Sept. 28 at The Lyric Opera House in Chicago. Scarlett is also the choreographer of the acclaimed ballet “Frankenstein.”

The story of “Carmen” revolves around a seductive gypsy named Carmen, who causes mayhem in the life of soldier Don Jose, leading to a complicated love triangle, destructive relationships and tragedy.

With the Joffrey Ballet at the helm of this story, this theatrical production soars with skillful and dynamic dance moves. The musical score by Georges Bizet shines as well.

“Carmen” originally had its debut in 2015 by the Norwegian National Ballet.

Starring as Carmen in the Joffrey’s opening night production was Victoria Jaiani, who offered a passionate, sultry and engaging performance. Dancers Alberto Velazquez as Don Jose and Dylan Gutierrez, as the bullfighter Escamillo, proved powerful in their roles as they executed energetic leaps, turns and other dynamic dance moves.

Kudos to the entire troupe for its terrific performance throughout the full-length ballet. The Joffrey Ballet never fails to draw audiences in with their adept performances.

FYI: “Carmen,” by The Joffrey Ballet, continues to Sept. 28 at the Lyric Opera House, 20 North Upper Wacker Drive, Chicago. Visit joffrey.org.