From Christmas ’07: A ballet that is almost synonymous with Christmas, the Nutcracker was not a favorite of Mr. Tchaikovsky, although it grew on him. You’ll find out more and hear some music from The Nutcracker Suite in this episode. Comment at MyChristmasStocking.net, email me at TopElf at MyChristmasStocking.NET. Thanks, Melissa, for calling and wishing your family Merry Christmas. Merry Christmas to you!

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Background music:

“Nutcracker Overture” by Music Box Archives (from Soundclick.com)

“Deck the Halls” by Herbie Flowers, Mike Hatchard (from “Christmas Jazz – Colourful Interpretations Of Christmas Favorites”)
(Classic Fox Records)
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Featured music:

“March” from “Nutcracker Suite Op. 71 Pt. 2” by the Goose Creek Bands (from Soundclick.com)

More information:

BalletMet Columbus (OH) has a comprehensive history of the ballet.

Wikipedia.com has some good information on both Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker and the original story.

Ballet Minnesota has a timeline of the ballet’s development.

Here’s a quick synopsis of the plot.