This jazz-steeped reimagining of The Nutcracker, based on the genre-defying collaboration of Duke Ellington and Billy Strayhorn and their arrangement of Tchaikovsky’s timeless score, celebrates the magic of the jazz heartbeat of Harlem in Sugar Hill. Hop aboard an enchanted A-train on a whirlwind fantasy in which our young heroine is transported to a place where music floats up through the subway grates and dance enlivens each corner. A tribute to the joy of collaboration, the beauty of diversity, and the power of individuality, Sugar Hill also embeds the story of Ellington and Strayhorn’s little-known but vital relationship.

Directed by Emmy Award winner and Tony nominee Joshua Bergasse, this original production features a libretto and concept by Jessica Swan, and choreography led by Jade Hale-Christofi with a team of dance world superstars, including Graciela Daniele, Carmen de Lavallade, Caleb Teicher, Jon Boogz and Bergasse. 

Cast and programming subject to change

Art by Ben Wiseman

FALL FOR DANCE FESTIVAL
Sep 21 – Oct 2, 2022

TWYLA THARP | In the Upper Room & Nine Sinatra Songs
Oct 19 – 23, 2022

ALVIN AILEY AMERICAN DANCE THEATER
Nov 30 – Dec 24, 2022