Houston Repertoire Ballet’s The Nutcracker Returns to Cypress This December with Guest Artists, New Sets and Live Orchestra
The Sugar Plum Fairy is dancing her way back to Cypress this December—and she’s bringing all the magic of The Nutcracker with her.
Houston Repertoire Ballet’s beloved holiday tradition returns for its second season at the Cypress-Fairbanks ISD Visual and Performing Arts Center (VPAC) December 5–7, 2025. With five dazzling performances, a live orchestra, all-new Texas-built sets, and rising local talent alongside nationally recognized guest artists, this is more than just a ballet—it’s a full holiday experience for the whole family.
Now celebrating its 30th year, Houston Repertoire Ballet (HRB) has earned a reputation as the premier youth ballet company in Northwest Houston. Their annual production of The Nutcracker—anchored by professional musicians and elegant choreography—is a cornerstone of the community’s holiday calendar.
A Magical Tradition, Reimagined
HRB’s Nutcracker is known for staying true to the timeless story: Clara’s dreamy adventure through a snowy forest and into the sparkling Land of Sweets. But last year’s debut at the new CFISD VPAC gave the production a fresh, immersive update.
The company invested $200,000 into custom-built stage sets designed by Ian Loveall and constructed by Dallas Stage Scenery Co., transforming the production into a feast for the eyes. Paired with the orchestra’s live performance of Tchaikovsky’s iconic score, the result is something rare for suburban families—big city-quality ballet with small-town warmth.
And that warmth runs deep: from Clara’s leap into adventure, to the Sugar Plum Fairy’s grand pas de deux, to the soft gasp of children in the audience as snow begins to fall on stage—The Nutcracker brings joy across generations.
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A Stage Worthy of the Story
The CFISD Visual and Performing Arts Center is still new to many in the Cypress area—but it’s quickly making its mark. Funded by the 2019 bond program and opened in 2024, the 85,000-square-foot facility was designed to serve as the heart of fine arts in the district.
With seating for 1,500, a professional fly loft, orchestra pit, and beautiful architectural features, it provides an elevated experience for both artists and audience members. HRB’s move to the VPAC reflects its ongoing commitment to artistic excellence while keeping performances accessible and affordable for local families.
Where Professional Meets Personal
At the heart of The Nutcracker is a remarkable group of young dancers, rigorously trained and deeply dedicated. All performers are selected from the Ballet Center of Houston, and each dancer earns their spot through hard work, discipline, and a passion for the art form.
Houston Repertoire Ballet is more than a youth ballet company—it’s a launching pad for professional careers in classical dance. Founded in 1995 by nationally recognized teachers and choreographers Gilbert Rome and Victoria Vittum, HRB has spent three decades preparing talented students for the world stage. Alumni have gone on to perform with leading companies such as Houston Ballet, American Ballet Theatre, Miami City Ballet, Colorado Ballet, and Kansas City Ballet.
HRB’s mission blends artistic excellence with community accessibility—offering top-tier classical ballet training and professional-level performances to families across suburban Greater Houston. Through productions like The Nutcracker, the company provides cultural enrichment, youth development, and artistic education for families across Cypress, Tomball, Spring, and beyond.
Each year, HRB also welcomes professional guest artists from world-renowned companies like American Ballet Theatre and Houston Ballet to perform alongside its pre-professional dancers. Last season, the stage lit up with NYC-based stars Léa Fleytoux and Jake Roxander as the Sugar Plum Fairy and her Cavalier. This year’s guest artists have not yet been announced—but if past performances are any indication, they’re worth the wait.
For one weekend each December, the result is a beautiful collaboration of local roots and professional reach—where the next generation of dancers shares the stage with artists who’ve already made their mark.
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Performance Schedule & Ticket Details
Location
CFISD Visual & Performing Arts Center (VPAC) at 11420 Matzke Road, Cypress, TX 77429
Dates & Times
Friday, December 5, 2025: 7:00 – 9:00 PM
Saturday, December 6, 2025: 2:00 - 4:00 PM | 7:00 - 9:00 PM
Sunday, December 7, 2025: 1:00 - 3:00 PM | 4:30 - 6:30 PM
Tickets
Adults (19+): $25–$35
Children & Seniors (65+): $20–$30
Tickets available now at this website.
- All guests require a ticket.
- No lap seating permitted per fire marshal guidelines.
- Recommended for ages 2+
- Wheelchair and companion seating available. Email vpac@cfisd.net for special accommodations.
- Group Tickets: Planning a group outing? Discounts may be available for parties of 15 or more. Contact hrbtickets@hrbdance.org or call 281-940-4721.
Please note: A clear bag policy will be in effect for all large events held in the VPAC’s main auditorium, per CFISD guidelines. All bags, including diaper bags, must meet transparency and size requirements and may be subject to search upon entry.
If you're looking for a memory-making holiday outing in Cypress—this is it. Whether you're introducing little ones to their first ballet or continuing a cherished family tradition, HRB’s Nutcracker is a story that never grows old.
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.
