The Nutcracker Ballet has come to life each year at Stephens Auditorium in Ames since 1981! Robert Thomas and Miyoko Kato-Thomas co-created and were the artistic directors of the original 1981 production.  As part of the 40th Anniversary, artistic direction transferred to the Iowa Youth Ballet. Stephens Auditorium has remained the producer throughout the entirety, creating the longest-running Nutcracker production in Iowa history. The ballet tells the story of Marie, her heroic Nutcracker prince, and the fantastic dream they share one Christmas Eve night. A cast of over 200 dancers, ages six through adult, come together from all over Central Iowa to rehearse weekends beginning in September, to present the ballet in mid-December. Professional dancers round out the cast in the roles of the Sugar Plum Fairy and her Cavalier. Unique to this production of the Nutcracker Ballet are several dances not seen in other versions: Gum Drops, Candy Canes, Harlequins, Pralines and Cinnamon Sticks to name a few. In 2021, for the 40th annual Nutcracker, an elaborate new Battle Scene was introduced to the show, with the Mice and Soldiers and many new parts for younger children added. Choreographed by Award-Winning Maureen McGrath and assisted by Robert Thomas, this lengthened ballet scene is an exciting part to participate in. Be a part of the Nutcracker magic with The Iowa Youth Ballet and Stephens Auditorium!