One last 'Nutcracker'

By Meredith Deliso

Not sick of “The Nutcracker” just yet?

Then check out the American Ballet Theatre’s full-length production of the holiday classic, as the world-class company comes to the Brooklyn Academy of Music just in the nick of time, in previews starting tonight and running to Jan. 2.

Don’t get this confused with “The Hard Nut,” a retro reimagining by Mark Morris of the eventful Christmas night that recently ran on stage at BAM. 

The American Ballet Theatre’s version, from choreographer Alexei Ratmansky, presents a more traditional retelling of the children’s story, complete with a live orchestra performing the full score, charming child dancers, and extraordinary Biedermeier-inspired sets and costumes by Tony Award-winner Richard Hudson (of “Lion King” fame) to help bring to life the toy soldiers, enchanting fairies, dancing snowflakes and mischievous mice.

The run, just the company’s third “Nutcracker” in its 70-year history, features several matinee performances throughout the week — perfect for families with children home from school — with 16 performances crammed into 10 days of performances, so you can enjoy “The Nutcracker” before it’s simply too late.

“The Nutcracker” at the Brooklyn Academy of Music [30 Lafayette Ave. between Ashland Place and St. Felix Street in Fort Greene,  (718) 646-4100], Dec. 22-Jan. 2. Tickets $20-$135. For info, visit www.abt.org.