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Connecticut Dance School’s beloved family friendly production of The Nutcracker features all the magic you expect—waltzing flowers, a growing Christmas tree, and the graceful Sugar Plum Fairy—performed by students from across Fairfield County (including real-life families on stage!).

This festive 2026 production will feature more than 100 CDS students from all over Fairfield County. Audiences will be entertained by most everything a Nutcracker connoisseur looks for, twirling snowflakes, a Mouse Queen, and a magical Sugar Plum Fairy!

The Sunday 1 p.m. performance is sensory friendly, including the Connecticut Dance School’s 4All Abilities students and their CDS Dance Buddies. The Connecticut Dance School’s D4AA program adapts dance education to neurodivergent students with challenges such as Autism Spectrum Disorder, Down Syndrome, or varying physical abilities.

The performance environment is friendly, supportive, and non-judgmental for patrons of all ages, with or without sensitivity or sensory processing challenges. Accommodations include environmental adjustments to sound effects and house and stage lighting.  Patrons, with staff assistance, may enter or exit the theater during the performance, and the lobby will host a quiet activity area.  This way, all may share the joy of live dance, together in the theater!

Nutcracker 2026 will commemorate Connecticut Dance School’s 32nd production. The Nutcracker has become a time-honored tradition and a wonderful way to celebrate the season.