Sponsored by Midwest Dance Mechanix.
After six years of sell-out performances, Midwest Dance Mechanix’ Short & Suite Nutcracker is back for its 7th season of making magical holiday memories!
Whether it’s a long standing tradition or a first time experience, The Short & Suite Nutcracker will delight guests of all ages with the sweetness of the season. From the moment you step into the festive lobby, magic & memories abound!
Voted Wichita’s Best Annual Event in 2021, 2022 and 2023, Midwest Dance Mechanix’ abbreviated production of The Nutcracker has established itself as one of Wichita’s holiday “must do” events; especially for young children.
Here are the Top 5 Reasons this event has been winning over the Wichita community:
Here are the Top 5 Reasons this event has been winning over the Wichita community:
- It’s short and “suite”… the perfect length to delight guests and keep them engaged. Jana Owen, Artistic Director, wanted to offer the Wichita community a Nutcracker option that was appealing to audiences of all ages, including very young children. “To me, the Nutcracker is magical! Watching the story unfold through the eyes of a child is my favorite”, said Owen. Her “suite” twist on the the classic holiday ballet will be performed in an abbreviated format, utilizing voiced narration during the musical interludes to keep children engaged in the magical story of dancing dolls, sparkling snowflakes and mischievous mice. “My vision was to create an artistic story that could be enjoyed by very young children as well as the young at heart; by ballet experts as well as first time audience members”, said Owen. The show running time is approximately 75 minutes, including a 15 minute intermission.
- It’s more than just a ballet… it’s an interactive memory-making experience! Owen wanted guests to experience even more holiday magic so she’s offering a variety of memory making experiences for guest to enjoy before and after the performance.” These “bonus features” include children’s Santa “Wish Lists”, live visits with Santa before the show, autographs and picture opportunities with costumed cast members, pointe shoe decorating kits, a “Land of Sweets Shoppe” filled with delectable fresh baked treats and beautiful confections from local bakers, shopping opportunities and more! Even the children’s playbill is interactive; including both educational and entertaining activities for kids to enjoy during the show and at home.
- Wichita ballet legends, Stan and Sharon Rogers, are a part of the creative team. Owen has teamed up with former Friends University Ballet Director, Stan Rogers, to create the beautiful and classic choreography and costuming for the show. Owen and Ballet Director, Trudy Souba, are former students of Rogers and together, they have performed in and produced countless Nutcracker productions. The foursome are nothing less than a creative ballet “dream team” and it will be a treat to watch their vision and artistry come to life on the stage!
- Experience the wonder of our Nutcracker like never before! Since our humble beginning in 2018, we’ve completely transformed every aspect of the production, bringing fresh magic to every costume, backdrop, and prop. This year, we’re adding even more enchantment with engaging storytelling and dynamic acting that will pull you deeper into the tale. Look out for exciting new roles and whimsical props that bring the Battle Scene to life in an unforgettable way. Join us for a reimagined Nutcracker where every detail has been enhanced to make this performance one to remember.
- It’s beautiful, magical and well worth the modest ticket price! While the performance may be shorter in length, it is certainly NOT short on professionalism, technique, and pure holiday magic! Quality dancing, beautiful costuming and creative choreography mixed with the interactive “extras” create the perfect recipe for a treasured family tradition! “I hope the audience enjoys a complete holiday experience when they attend our Nutcracker and that they leave with visions of sugar plums dancing in their heads”, said Owen. There is not a bad seat in the house, but space is limited so advance ticket purchasing is strongly encouraged!
For additional holiday festivities and things to do, be sure to visit our 
