This year, Ballet Austin will spirit guests away to the whimsical world of The Nutcracker with Fête 2012, a show-stopping tribute to the timeless Christmas classic. Marking the Golden Anniversary of its Nutcracker production, Ballet Austin presents a sparkling evening in two acts: inspired by the elegance of the Victorian era and the magic of Tchaikovsky’s masterpiece, the Fête dinner and fête*ish after-party promise an enchanting journey to the land of sweets, cuisine and the arts.
Upon arrival at the Driskill Hotel, guests will find themselves immersed in the opening party scene of The Nutcracker. Complete with extraordinary floral designs by Mandarin Flower Company and a sumptuous, Victorian-inspired menu, Fête will bring the Nutcracker to life, as characters emerge from the ballet and into the festivities. Taking cues from Victorian holiday celebrations, Fête begins with a Nutcracker-themed dinner and cocktails by TWIN Liquors, while classical strings usher in an unforgettable evening.
Fête’s second act plunges guests into the fantastical world of Clara’s dream for fête*ish. Larger-than-life sets and surprises around every corner await, as guests dance the night away to the sounds of Austin’s own Invincible Czars, followed by Mandy Lauderdale and Grammy award-winning DJ Spinderella. Over the course of the evening, Ballet Austin will also unveil a program celebrating the countless “Nutcracker Moments” that have shaped its community of dancers over the past 50 seasons. Proceeds from Fête and fête*ish support Ballet Austin’s education and outreach programs, which benefit over 57,000 Central Texans every year. “First and foremost,” says Director of Development Christi Cuellar, “we want guests to walk away feeling good about supporting Ballet Austin.”