If you are in need of a jolt of holiday spirit, be sure to catch one of the two unique performances of the Christmas classic, “The Nutcracker.”  The North Carolina Dance Theatre presents Jean-Pierre Bonnefoux’s “Nutcracker” with live music by the Charlotte Symphony Orchestra on December 13-22, and Caroline Calouche & Co. presents “Clara’s Trip” on December 20-21.

“Clara’s Trip” by Caroline Calouche & Co.

Calouche puts a modern twist on this holiday favorite with a contemporary setting and a clumsy, accident-prone Clara. Not to mention the new heights achieved with the use of aerial apparatus, including the trapeze, silks, aerial sling and bungee. Company dancer Stephanie Cantrell will star as Clara, Jim Reynolds as Beau and Caroline Calouche as Angela Flowers; Anthony Olivia a dancer with Pilobolus will perform as a special guest in the role of Angela’s husband. “Clara’s Trip” will be performed at the Booth Playhouse at 7 p.m. both nights. Tickets are $35-$45.

“Nutcracker” North Carolina Dance Theatre. Photo by Jeff Cravotta

NCDT takes a more classic approach to “The Nutcracker” with dancing sugarplums, snowflakes, a scary mouse king and a heroic nutcracker prince. “We’re pleased to bring the time-honored holiday tradition of ‘The Nutcracker’ to the Charlotte area year after year,” said President and Artistic Director Jean-Pierre Bonnefoux. Tickets to the NCDT performance range from $25 to $90 and can be purchased online or by calling 704-372-1000. “The Nutcracker” will be danced at the Belk Theater with both matinee and evening performances on Saturdays and Sundays.