Ballet Images will present “The Nutcracker” at the Lafon Performing Arts Center in Luling Dec.13-14. Tickets are $35. Full performances of the ballet are Saturday, Dec. 13 at 7 p.m. and Sunday, Dec. 14 at 3 p.m.
A shorter Sugarplum Party performance for young children and families is Dec. 13 at 11 a.m. After the show, audience members are invited on stage to meet the cast, ask questions and take photos.
The past year has been one of many changes for Ballet Images, formerly River Region Ballet. The organization not only changed its name but moved into a new studio. It also formed a new board of directors to ensure the studio thrives as a community-based nonprofit, said Katelyn Fitts, artistic director of Ballet Images.
After a year of changes, this season of “The Nutcracker” feels extra meaningful, Fitts said.
“It represents growth, resilience and community,” she said. “Performing ‘The Nutcracker’ this year feels like a celebration of how far we’ve come and how much love and dedication continue to fuel this program.”
This year’s production will include new choreography, updated costuming and some surprises within the party and battle scenes.
“I think audiences will especially love the energy and storytelling this year — it truly captures the spirit of the holidays,” Fitts said.
Hahnville High School student Jolie Swint will take the stage as the main character of the ballet, Clara. Swint has been dancing for 10 years and has spent nine of those performing in “The Nutcracker.” She has performed in many roles in the ballet, including Mouse, Mouse Lieutenant, Soldier, Party Girl, Snow Corps, Tea Duchess, Ginger Child, Harlequin Doll and Waltz Corps.
“Seeing Jolie step into the role of Clara is incredibly meaningful,” Fitts said. “She’s grown up through this production, showing dedication, discipline and heart every step of the way. Watching her take on this lead role is a full-circle moment — the kind of milestone that reminds us why we do what we do: to nurture dancers not just in technique, but in confidence, grace and character.”
Swint said her role as Clara is an amazing opportunity. 
“What I most enjoy about dancing is being able to tell a story to the audience and inspire them to do new things,” Swint said.
Swint is a cheerleader, a competition dancer and a part of the HHS theatre program. Her goal is to one day be a Dallas Cowboys cheerleader.
Fitts said she hopes that every performance in the ballet sparks wonder and excitement and renews a timeless holiday joy.
“‘The Nutcracker’ is so much more than a performance,” she said. “It’s a tradition that has carried on for more than 30 years, connecting generations through dance and storytelling. It’s a gift we want to keep passing on for generations to come.”
She said Ballet Images is grateful for the continued support from the community, families and sponsors who make “The Nutcracker” possible year after year.
“Whether you’re joining us for the first time or have been part of this tradition for decades, we hope this production fills your heart with holiday spirit and reminds you of the magic that happens when art and community come together,” she said.
Fitts said that community involvement has always been at the heart of what the studio does, but this year the studio made it a priority to expand that involvement. The studio has participated in meet-and-greets, the Norco parade, multiple library shows and nursing home visits, and it has offered low-cost community classes and events.
“These experiences allow our dancers to share their love of ballet with a wider audience, while building connections that bring joy and creativity to every corner of our community,” Fitts said. “It’s about using dance to uplift, inspire and remind people that the arts are for everyone.”
Tickets are available at www.lafonartscenter.org.
